John Clifford, 9th Baron Clifford

The second of the two new Command stands I have been working on for my small Wars of the Roses project has finally been completed. The figures will represent Clifford, sometime known as 'The Butcher', and two knights from his Household, one bearing his Heraldic Banner and the other his Personal Standard. The figures are from Perry Miniatures, the flags are from Pete's Flags and the base is from Warbases as ever! As a slightly different look for this base one of the knights is depicted on foot raising the Standard in salute to Clifford, who in turn acknowledges him by raising his helm in response. Well, that's how I see it anyway! Nothing much else needs saying by now, so here they are ~

The project had very nearly reached its conclusion, at least for now, and just in time for the festive season wind down too. I had four metal foot figures ready for painting remaining in the Lead Pimple: Henry VI, Edward, Prince of Wales, the Bishop of Bath and Wells {for fans of The Black Adder of course}, and a MAA  bearing the Royal Banner. All could be grouped together it seems to me on a vignette base which can provide a bit of interest beyond the battlefield action. Hopefully these will be finished well before Santa calls! In addition there were 3 mounted MAA, a MAA standard bearer and yet another Warwick! I've no idea at present as to when those figures might reach the head of the painting queue for their encounter with the Brush of Doom! And that would have been it, honestly, but for an unexpected parcel which arrived on Friday afternoon!

From Aly Morrison as a surprise gift, no doubt excavated from amongst his Lead/Plastic Alp during the move into his newly refurbished wargaming quarters. Lots of figures to sort out and put to use, but my favourite piece has to be the Snowman figure painter. It now has pride of place on my desk!

With all this mention of gifts I should end with a sincere Christmas greeting for all who visit this blog, but especially those who take the time and trouble to leave some words of encouragement. 

Now, there's still time to sort through all those new figures and see what new units and characters can be added...A Happy Christmas!