'No debate needed' on Illiam Dhone

Figure's place in history absolute says expert

The English oration at yesterday's Illiam Dhone commemoration ceremony concentrated on historical accounts of a man who, in the past, has divided opinion.

Since his execution in 1663, the political rebel has since then been depicted by some as a traitor, whilst many deem him to be a martyr.

But the guest speaker, seventeenth-century historian Dr John Callow, praised William Christian's 'genius' political nous, his international awareness, and his cultural sympathies.

In fact, Dr Callow thinks 'the great rebel', who has become a 'symbol of resistance', should not be subject to any debate at all: