The General Array was an assembly of men able to bear arms within the Bishopric, against the enemy at that time (mainly the invading Scots.) The Array enabled the battle formation and numbers of available men to be assessed on a regular basis, to ensure there was adequate cover and fighting skills.
At the General Array of the Clergy upon Gilesgate Moor in 1400, the Vicar of Dalton (Richard de Wolveston 1373 - 1405) furnished one archer from his parish. Archers between the ages of 14 and 35, were obliged to practice on a regular basis to maintain their strength in readiness for battle. From Seaham, the Rector furnished one hobelar and one archer, A hobelar, is a servant duty bound to serve in an army as a cavalry or light horseman, providing his own small horse, (also hobbler from hobby - a horse.) The bow and arrow was a key weapon in the defence of a community, its importance is reflected in the coat of arms of Sir William Bowes and its use as a decorative image on his body vest.