A PENSIONER who believes Oliver Cromwell stayed at her house before doing battle is backing calls to commemorate Preston's part in the Civil War.

The Battle of Preston was fought in Ribbleton and Brookfield in 1648 and was the last clash of the Civil War. It brought down the monarchy, as Charles I was beheaded and Oliver Cromwell became Lord Protector.

Streets in the area are named after war generals such as Watling Street, Fairfax and Lambert roads.

Eileen Swarbrick, from Hamilton Road, has been told Cromwell stayed at her house on the eve of the battle. A barn in her back garden could have been stables where the Lord Protector's horses were kept.

She said: "A builder told me the house once had many more rooms. Visitors say there's something unusual about the place.

"My son was a gardener and found a sword on Grange Park believed to be Cromwellian. If the stories are true, they should be officially recognised." Preston councillor Bill Chadwick is campaigning for more research and commemorative plaques to be placed at the important war zones. He said: "The war caused historical and political changes of national importance and should be acknowledged. Next year will be the battle's 350th anniversary. I hope we can plan a re-enactment."

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