The generally accepted view is that, in order to attack Royalist Maidstone on 1 June 1648 from the southwest, the Parliamentary army crossed the River Medway by way of East Farleigh bridge. However, it is inconceivable that the commanding general, Sir Thomas Fairfax, would have committed seven thousand troops to the single sunken lane leading to the bridge in the face of likely enemy (Royalist) resistance. The reality is that Fairfax split his army and crossed the river at both Teston and Barming, as well as East Farleigh. Part of the army therefore passed through West Farleigh.
What has recently come to light is a letter written by Colonel Edward Whalley, commanding the column that crossed at Teston Bridge, describing the action at West Farleigh. The document was in poor condition, but just readable and commences:-
“…I herewith provide this Account of our successe at West Farley. Upon Thursday 1st June in the Afternoon about foure of the Clock, after the March from the East Malling Heath we got neare the Medway River, the Column under my Command making for the Teston Bridge, and the other under the command of Major Jackson making for the Barming Forde, these two river Crossings having been previously identified to us by our Kentish Guides. In the case of the Teston Bridge, upon coming in its sight, Earthen Barricadoes were seen barring the entrance to the Bridge from the North...”
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