913AD. Ealdred became High-Reeve of Bamburgh at the death of his father Eadulf. Almost immediately he was driven from Bernica by Ragnall Ivarrson the Norse grandson of Ivar the boneless who had arrived in a fleet of ships. Ealdred fled to the court of King Constantine II of Alba.
914AD. Ealdred persuaded Constantine II to back him in an attempt to regain his position. The Scots and the Norse met in battle at Corbridge on the river Tyne. The Scottish army were scattered, king Constantine fled and Ealdred and his brother Uhtred were the only English nobles to survive. The land captured was divided between two of Ragnall’s followers.
918AD. Ragnall returned. This time Ealdred and Constantine is ready for him and again they met at Corbridge. The Norse formed into four battalions, the first led by Guthfrith, the second by two Jarls, the third by the young lords and the forth that lay in ambush was led by Ragnall himself. The Scots routed the three battalions killing great numbers, including two of the leaders. In the midst of the battle, however, Ragnall’s battalion attacked the Scots from behind causing great slaughter. The battle was broken off at nightfall and despite the Scots claiming victory there seem to have been no overall victor. In any case Ragnal move south and seized Jorvik (York).
Ealdred returned to Bamburgh and seemed to have regained control over most of Benica.
920AD. Ealdred agreed to the overlordship of King Edward the Elder.
926AD. Athelstan marched north and took Bamburgh Castle and expelled Ealdred.
927AD. Ealdred was reinstated when he agreed to Athelstan’s overlordship.
930AD. Ealdred died and his son Osulf became High-Reeve of Bamburgh.
