[9] One of Walcher's councillors was Ligulf of Lumley, who was connected by birth to the old Northumbrian line and was married to the daughter of Ealdred, Earl of Bernicia.
[11] The Scots, under Malcolm III, were able to plunder Northumberland for about three weeks unopposed before returning to Scotland with slaves and booty.
In order to calm the situation Walcher agreed to travel from Durham and meet Ligulf's kinsmen at Gateshead.
Leobwin died in the blaze and when Walcher, Gilbert and the rest of his party were forced out by the flames they were killed on 14 May 1080 at Gateshead.
As was typical of Norman castles, it consisted of a motte (mound) and an inner and outer bailey (fenced or walled area).
According to Symeon of Durham, Walcher's household knights were allowed to plunder and occasionally kill natives without punishment.
[7] Symeon of Durham portrayed him as an honest, upright man who diligently performed his episcopal duties.
[19] Following the killing of Walcher, the rebels attacked Durham Castle and besieged it for four days, before returning to their homes.