Latest news with #Royalists
BBC News
15-07-2025
- Politics
- BBC News
The battle that reshaped the course of English history
It has been 380 years since the Parliamentarians defeated the Royalists at the Battle of Langport, paving the way for one of the biggest changes in England's Somerset battle effectively ended Royalist control in the West Country, a key strategic region. This boosted Parliamentarian morale and crippled their opponents forces in one morning of believe that the battle of July 1645, fought during the English Civil War, marked a turning point that ultimately led to the execution of King Charles I and the abolition of the Julian Humphrys, of the Battlefields Trust, said: "This battle really was the beginning of the end for the Royalists." Lord Goring led the Royalists for King Charles I, while Sir Thomas Fairfax headed the Parliamentarian's New Model Army, known as the Roundheads, who were a skilled, disciplined Humphrys said the Royalist army was different."They weren't the finest of troops you could say… a bunch of boozers really and their discipline was poor, they didn't have much money."They weren't being payed and they lived by nicking things off the local population who didn't like them in the slightest," he added. Lord Goring was holding an area about one mile east of Langport towards the village of Huish Royalists wanted to buy time so their army could pull back to Bridgwater. They planted musket troops along the hedges, with a few guns to protect the ford was then that the Parliamentarians came in with "a bold attack", said Mr cleared the hedges of Royalists at what is now Picts Hill by sending musketeers meant their cavalry could "splash across the crossing and drive the Royalists back".The Royalist troops did not put up much of a fight after the Roundheads crossed the water and were driven back quickly, he Humphrys added that metal detectors are stilling unearthing musket balls and pistol shots from the action. Some local people who were being affected by the war armed themselves and were known as "clubmen".They would defend their area from the army pillaging their homes using things like cudgels and pitchforks."The reality for the people of the time was disrupted trade, the armies were never very healthy so they spread disease, they damaged buildings, they took people's 1645, the people of Somerset were "very fed up of the war", Mr Humphrys added. Oliver Cromwell Mr Humphrys said Oliver Cromwell, the most famous Roundhead, detailed that he was actually there at the time, but "he was more of a second-in-command"."He was a fairly minor east Anglian MP, but it was these victories which got him promoted gradually over time."This led to him eventually commanding the whole of Parliament's army," Mr Humphrys added. When it comes to commemorating the Civil War, Mr Humphrys said "we need to remember these people were our ancestors"."Many of the ordinary soldiers had very little say of whether they fought or not and the cost of a civil war is a huge tragedy wherever it happens.""A greater percentage of the population died from this civil war than in World War One," he said.
Associated Press
07-07-2025
- Politics
- Associated Press
Hundreds greet Nepal's ex-king on his birthday as support for the ousted monarch grows
KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — Hundreds of supporters of Nepal's former king lined up outside his residence to greet him on his 74th birthday Monday as support for the ousted monarch grows in the Himalayan nation. Gyanendra Shah, who makes very few public appearances, allowed his supporters inside his house for three hours. Supporters lined up outside with flower garlands, bouquets, cards, gifts and various food items which are traditionally offered during special occasions in Nepalese culture. 'Bring king back to the throne and save the country. We love our king more than our lives,' chanted the loyalists, many wearing traditional attire. Nepal abolished the monarchy and turned the nation into a republic in 2008, bringing in a president as the head of the state. There has been growing demand in recent months for Shah to be reinstated as king and Hinduism to be brought back as a state religion. Royalist groups accuse the country's major political parties of corruption and failed governance and say people are frustrated with politicians. 'People were looking for change and they removed the king hoping that it would be beneficial for the country, but that was very untrue and the political parties repeatedly betrayed people's trust,' said retired worker Kula Prasad Bhattarai, who stood in line for hours outside the king's residence. 'The politicians have damaged our nation,' said Divesh Singh Hamal, another supporter. 'We need to bring the king back or else our country will be finished.' Gyanendra was a constitutional head of state without executive or political powers until 2005, when he seized absolute power. He disbanded the government and parliament, jailed politicians and journalists and cut off communications, declaring a state of emergency and using the army to rule the country. Support for the ousted monarch has risen in recent months. Tens of thousands of protesters demanding the restoration of the monarchy and the former king be made head of state demonstrated in May. In March, at least two people died when another rally turned violent as supporters of the ex-king clashed with riot police. Massive street protests in 2006 forced Gyanendra to give up his authoritarian rule, and two years later the parliament voted to abolish the monarchy. Gyanendra, who left the royal palace to live as a commoner, has not commented on the calls for the restoration of the monarchy. Despite growing support, the former king has little chance of immediately returning to power.
CBS News
25-06-2025
- Business
- CBS News
Iconic restaurant chain Roy Rogers returns to Cherry Hill, New Jersey
Roy Rogers to open first location since the 80s in Cherry Hill, New Jersey Roy Rogers to open first location since the 80s in Cherry Hill, New Jersey Roy Rogers to open first location since the 80s in Cherry Hill, New Jersey The western-themed chain Roy Rogers made its long-awaited return to Cherry Hill, New Jersey, Wednesday. It's the restaurant's first return to the South Jersey and Philadelphia area since the 1980s. "It has always been a priority for the brand to make this long-anticipated return, and Cherry Hill allows us to serve a growing, diverse community and introduce a new generation to the quality and variety that Roy Rogers is known for," Jim Plamondon, co-president of Roy Rogers Restaurants, said. The chain is known for its "Triple Threat" roast beef, hand-breaded fried chicken, and fresh burgers. The new location also features the iconic Fixin's Bar, featuring lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and more. The 3,300-square-foot restaurant, formerly restaurant PDQ, features a drive-thru, indoor and outdoor seating. Located at 614 Haddonfield Rd., the restaurant is near retail locations like Cherry Hill Mall and Garden State Park and just 10 minutes from Center City. "This is a true celebration for our Roy Rogers family, and we look forward to continuing the excitement over the next few months as we meet our new and returning Royalists," Plamondon said. "Connecting with other local businesses and organizations is very important to us, so that we may become a contributor to the culture and success of the Cherry Hill community." The restaurant will host a grand opening ceremony at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, featuring remarks from Plamondon and Cherry Hill Mayor David Fleisher. Roy Rogers was founded in 1968 and features 24 company-owned establishments and 16 franchise restaurants across seven states.
Business Wire
20-06-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Roy Rogers Restaurants Long-Anticipated Return to Cherry Hill Set for June 25
CHERRY HILL, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Roy Rogers Restaurants is officially opening its newest location in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, on June 25. This restaurant is the chain's first return to the Southern New Jersey and Philadelphia markets since the 1990s, marking an exciting new era for the brand. The location is 614 Haddonfield Rd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002. Roy Rogers appeals to guests across generations with its emphasis on quality and variety, differentiating itself from a typical quick-service restaurant. Its menu caters to all three dayparts and late night, with a focus on the brand's core staples, also known as the Roy Rogers iconic Triple Threat: USDA choice top round roast beef, hand-breaded fresh-fried chicken and chicken tenders, and great-tasting burgers. Loyal fans will also recall the iconic Fixin's Bar®, offering fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, onions, pickles, and more. Whether dining in-store, using the drive-thru, ordering pickup, or delivery, customers can fully customize their sandwiches to their liking. 'The feedback from the Cherry Hill community since we announced this new restaurant has been overwhelmingly positive, and we have been working hard to make this opening a grand success,' says Jim Plamondon, co-president of Roy Rogers Restaurants. 'We are excited to make this long-anticipated return, and Cherry Hill allows us to serve a growing, diverse community and introduce a new generation to the quality and variety that makes Roy Rogers a cut above.' Situated in the heart of one of the region's top shopping destinations and just 10 minutes from Center City Philadelphia, the newly reconstructed Roy Rogers features several enhancements designed to elevate the guest experience, including a drive-thru and expanded indoor and outdoor seating. As the only burger drive-thru on bustling Haddonfield Road, the 3,300-square-foot restaurant is surrounded by three million square feet of premier retail space. It is ideally positioned to serve nearby neighborhoods, mixed-use developments, businesses, and schools. Grand Opening Details Roy Rogers Cherry Hill will officially open to serve guests during a formal Grand Opening ceremony event at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, June 25. The event will begin with remarks from co-owners Jim and Pete Plamondon and Cherry Hill Mayor David Fleisher, followed by raising the flag by JROTC Cadets from Cherry Hill High School West, the National Anthem sung by local vocalist Debra Janove and presentation of a donation to the Cherry Hill Public Library. There will be fun giveaways for the whole community to enjoy! The ceremony will conclude with a ribbon cutting, and the doors will open at 10:30 a.m. Media are encouraged to attend and RSVP to tkroys@ 'This is a true celebration for our Roy Rogers family, and we look forward to continuing the excitement over the next few months as we meet our new and returning Royalists,' adds Plamondon. 'Connecting with other local businesses and organizations is very important to us, so that we may become a contributor to the culture and success of the Cherry Hill community.' For more details on Roy Rogers Cherry Hill opening, current offers and promotions, or to explore the full Roy Rogers menu, visit About Roy Rogers® Restaurants: Based in Frederick, Md., Roy Rogers® is a chain of western-themed quick-service restaurants offering broad appeal across multiple dayparts and generations. The company is famous for serving up a 'Triple Threat' – three popular main dishes including USDA choice top round roast beef, hand-breaded, fresh fried chicken and great-tasting burgers – and for its famous Fixin's Bar®, where guests can customize their orders with a variety of fresh produce, condiments and signature sauces. Information on the company, its menu and current promotions is available at and on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Founded in 1968, Roy Rogers currently consists of 24 company-owned restaurants and 16 franchise restaurants in seven states. Qualified franchise investors are now being sought to develop the beloved brand. Franchise information can be found at or by contacting Joe Briglia, Director of Franchise Development at jbriglia@ or (240) 405-6205.
Telegraph
19-06-2025
- Politics
- Telegraph
Civil war begins with ordinary men – this book is proof
In November of 1641, King Charles I met with London's delegates just beyond the city walls, in the fenland of Moorfields (near where the Bank of England stands today). The royal party was presented with tokens of loyalty: £20,000 in a 'great cup of gold' for Charles, and £5000 in a golden basin for his wife, Henrietta Maria. The combined value of these gifts was about as much as it would have cost to run the government of Ireland for a year. It must have felt that the Royalist cause was finally in the ascendant. But as Jonathan Healey makes clear in his energetic and exceptional history, The Blood in Winter: A Nation Descends, 1642, the pageantry of the royal entry disguised a grim political reality for the beleaguered king. Spanning the period between the first session of the Long Parliament in November of 1640 and the moment on August 22 1642, when the English Civil War formally began, The Blood in Winter takes us beyond the disputes in Westminster. The particularly novel parts of Healey's tale show us how common people were well aware of the vicissitudes of royal fortune, and reflect how ideological splintering in the halls of power was felt throughout England long before the battle-lines were drawn. It was those same common people who showed up in droves to witness Charles's homecoming. He had been in Edinburgh since August of 1641, trying to settle favourable peace terms with the anti-Stuart Scottish Covenanters who had defeated him the previous year. His return to London was hastened by the need to distance himself from a conspiracy to kidnap several Covenanter leaders, foiled in October when one of the plotters lost his nerve and ran to the Covenanter Lord General. Meanwhile an unruly Parliament had been circulating early drafts of their Grand Remonstrance, taking advantage of the king's absence to compile a list of grievances that they would present, to city-wide uproar, on December 1. Worse still, rumours were flying that a gang of over 100 Catholics intended to break into Westminster Palace and slaughter everyone in attendance. While Healey's previous book, The Blazing World (2023), offered a panoramic view of the revolutionary century, the narrower focus of The Blood in Winter gives him, a social historian at heart, an opportunity to expand upon the details of everyday life during this uncertain time. The result is a book that bursts with character, a vivid reconstruction of England on the brink. In London we learn about dodgy areas such as Turnmill Street in Clerkenwell, occupied by prostitutes such as 'Pocky-Faced Dall' and frequented by listless military veterans and officers known as 'reformadoes'. Many of these men had returned from fighting the Covenanters and now spent their days drinking and duelling, waiting for the next call to arms. Beyond the capital, we're told about the appearance of 'mechanical' preachers: common men and women who would smith, sew, or scythe in the morning and preach fiery religious dogma in the afternoon. Across England a great fear of sects was taking hold: taverns thrummed with hearsay about drunken 'Bacchanalians', mystic 'Saturn-worshippers' and nudist 'Adamites'. While the portrait of Charles is familiar (an indecisive man, spurred to ever-greater escalations by his wife's palpable outrage at breaches to royal prerogative), Healey's narrative is original thanks to a well-chosen cast of supporting characters. Most prominent among these is Sir John Bankes, a lawyer born to a relatively humble background in Keswick in Cumberland who, by 1640, had risen to Chief Justice of the Common Pleas. Soon after Charles fled London for York he summoned Bankes, who was forced to leave his pregnant wife – telling his Parliamentary colleagues that he intended to 'push for peace'. The story is that of a family man, who leaned towards the Royalist camp but was initially hesitant to commit. As Charles prepared to lay siege to Hull, Bankes wrote to Parliament suggesting that the two parties could still be reconciled. This seems to me to be a better reflection of a prudent arbitrator than the 'breezily optimistic' figure which Healey observes, but it's an excellent example of the view, held by many, that outright conflict could – and should – be avoided at all costs. In the end, Bankes's family would feel the full brunt of the war. He died in Oxford in 1644, a charge of high treason from his erstwhile Parliamentary colleagues hanging over his head. His castle in Corfe, one of the last Royalist strongholds, held out until 1645 thanks to the leadership of Lady Mary Bankes. After its capture, it was 'slighted' (dismantled) so that it couldn't be put to Royalist use again. It's a pleasure to read Healey's stylish and fluid prose, and he's fantastic at conveying the importance of 'split-second moments' where the tide of history might have turned. What if Lucy Hay, Countess of Carlisle, had not passed on a warning to the Parliamentarians that Charles intended to arrest the Five Members? Or if Edward Littleton, Lord Keeper of the all-important Great Seal, had refused to abscond from London and join the king in York? Don't be fooled by the book's lugubrious subtitle. This is a rollicking history, packed with fire and excitement.
