Blenheim's 300th anniversary marked

Blenheim Palace was built in thanks for the 1st Duke of Marlborough's victory

The 300th anniversary of the Battle of Blenheim is to be marked by a series of events throughout 2004, it has been announced.

A key battle in British history, Blenheim saw John Churchill, the 1st Duke of Marlborough, defeat the French army of Louis XIV in August 1704.

The events to celebrate the anniversary of the battle in Germany will be held at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire.

The palace itself, now home to the 11th duke, was built for Marlborough by order of Queen Anne in thanks for his victory.

Between 1 and 3 May, there will be "A Call to Arms" at the palace - the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill - in which soldiers will test cannon and take part in skirmishes.

On 29 May, an exhibition entitled "John Churchill - The Unorthodox Hero" will open and will run until 12 September.

On 13 August, the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association charity will mark the anniversary of the battle with a military display.