Although of Highland background, Sir Neil Campbell of Lochawe had many men from Lowland areas in his force. His pikemen joined others of the like, forming into the four-sided’ hedgehog’ schitrons which William Wallace had pioneered more than decade before.
The Scots ranks were drilled and trained to face down mounted knights in armour by quickly getting into ranks, so tightly packed that they were almost impenetrable.
This caused devastation in the ranks of the charging English heavy cavalry.
In 1306, Campbell was among the first to rally to the would-be King’s support when Bruce raised the Scottish banner and challenged English claims over the Scottish Nation. Indeed, he was present at Scone in March 1306 when Robert was crowned King of Scots. When things did not go exactly to plan after King Robert suffered defeats at the Battle of Methven and Battle of Dalrigh, Campbell was one who remained steadfastly faithful and went on to play a key role in King Robert’s general for the years to come. So trusted was he by Bruce that he acted as a representative of the King in negotiations with the English crown in 1309 and 1314.
Keeping it in the family, Campbell married Bruce's sister, Mary Bruce.
