This week – 16 November 1290

John Balliol declared himself ‘heir to the kingdom of Scotland’ in a charter to Bishop Anthony Bek following the Maid of Norway’s death. The charter secured for Bek Scottish royal holdings, including the manors of Wark and Penrith in Tynedale. The grant was conditional upon confirmation by Edward I, meaning Edward would have to recognise and accept Balliol’s position as successor to the Maid and to Alexander III.