The leaflet, A Bloody Field By Shrewsbury takes its name from a novel written by local author, and Brother Cadfael creator, Edith Pargeter - and contains full details of all of the events designed to commemorate the Battle of Shrewsbury, and scheduled to run from the end of February to the middle of October. One of the most significant moments in Britain's history, both the build-up to the battle, and its aftermath, will be recalled throughout the year by walks, talks, exhibitions, plays and re-enactments.

Guided walks will include a series in August exploring the battlefield itself, the historical and archaeological features on the site, and the landscape and its natural environment.

The talks include a series of eight lectures at The Gateway Theatre, beginning on March 14th with Professor Anthony Carr talking about 'The Welsh Connection', and also featuring: Dr Tom Matheson speaking on 'When Harry Met Hal' on April 23rrd; Professor Richard Holmes speaking on 'Soldiers and Rebels' on June 6th; and Robert Hardy speaking on 'The Great Long Bow' on July 11th.

Other visitors to the town during the year-long celebrations include Michael Foreman, who illustrates Terry Jones' childrens' books, and who will be taking part in the Shrewsbury Children's Bookfest this year between May 2nd and 5th; and actor Timothy West who will be providing a dramatic anthology of conflict between father and son - entitled 'My Nearest and Dearest' - at Adcote School in Shrewsbury on June 15th.

Two exhibitions being held in the town are 'The Battle of Shrewsbury' at the Gateway Art Gallery from July 7th to 27th, and 'The Arts of War and Arts of Peace' at the town's Museum & Art Gallery between August 9th and October 11th.

Theatre will also play a major part in the anniversary year, with the first ever stage adaptation of Edith Pargeter's novel 'A Bloody Field By Shrewsbury' taking place at The Music Hall on May 22nd, 23rd and 24th. Other performances will include 'Slaughter and Salvation' by Misericordia and Shropshire Music Trust at Battlefield Church on the evening of June 22nd, and a performance of Shakespeare's Henry IV Part I at Haughmond Abbey from June 16th to 21st.

The town's annual Visual Arts Festival in July will also fit in around the anniversary theme. And commemorative events are scheduled to take place at both Shrewsbury Abbey and at the Battlefield Church on the weekend of July 20th/21st.