The French landed at St. Helens but were driven back to their ships by the Islanders. Sir Theobold Russell was killed during this action. There were no more raids until 1377, when the French laid seige to Carisbrooke Castle, which was at that time, under the command of Sir Hugh Tyrill. During the seige, a party of French soldiers on their way to the castle, were ambushed and killed. A tumulus, where the bodies were buried was somewhat triumphantly called "Noddies Hill" (a noddy being a body). The name was later corrupted to Node Hill and the tumulus was built upon. If anybody wonders why Node Hill is not a hill, this is the reason. The French could not subdue the Castle and withdrew. In 1418 another French raid failed, repulsed by the inhabitants who re-took the French plunder and captured many prisoners. Not long after this, another French fleet arrived and demanded money. The Islanders refused, but invited the French to land without hindrance, refresh themselves for 6 hours and then to meet them in the field. The French declined the invitation and retired. In 1545 a French fleet of about 200 sail came upon the English fleet anchored off St. Helens. The English fleet retreated to the Channel, hoping that the French would follow. They did not. Instead, 2000 Frenchmen landed and began plundering and burning villages. They were then subjected to a surprise attack, lead by Sir Richard Worsley, Captain of the Island, and were driven back to their ships with the loss of their commanding officer and many men. A number of forts were built to improve the defence of the Island and the south coast. This was greatly supplemented by England's growing naval power, sufficient to put an end to the French raids.
Hopefully this time when you land the greeting will be much nicer and you will get your few more beers!
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