After his initial assault on Norwich, the Earl of Northampton led a royal force of around 1,500 men — including Italian and Spanish mercenaries — to relieve the city in August 1549. The rebels, using the narrow streets and their knowledge of the terrain, fought a fierce urban battle. Lord Sheffield was killed when he was pulled from his horse. Northampton\'s force was driven from the city in disorder, a humiliating defeat that necessitated the despatch of Warwick with a larger army. The battle demonstrated the formidable fighting quality of the rebel force in defensive conditions.
Lord Sheffield killed; significant royal losses; rebels also suffered heavily
Royal: Lord Northampton c.1,500 with mercenaries and cavalry. Rebel: Kett\'s forces using Norwich streets and gates
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