Thomas Stafford's seizure of Scarborough Castle in April 1557 with a tiny French-backed force was the most reckless revolt of the Marian period. Proclaiming himself Protector of England against the Spanish influence he held the castle for only two days before loyal forces retook it. His execution and the French connection provided Mary I with a pretext to declare war on France — a war that lost Calais, England last French possession.
Stafford and followers executed
Stafford c.30 men; royal relief force under Westmorland
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