The Vikings are persistent. They have started attacking the monasteries and religious houses of the west coast. They see these places as easy targets, unprotected and yielding many treasures.

Iona is an important Christian centre, associated with St Columba. Nowhere is safe.

In these troubled times, a ruler must think and act fast.

Evidence of Viking raiding and looting. Hoard buried for safety at Iona Abbey, 986-90.

Account by a churchman of Viking raids on the religious community at Lindesfarne.