All good stuff! My uncle said the warriors were chieftains of the defeated side (so, i guess the Celts) who had been such noble opponents that they were honoured in this way, but also the deep roots of the Yew were thought to keep spirits underground instead of wandering around doing mischief. Great to hear that i didn't just imagine all this 30 years and more ago!! I'm also fascinated by the St. Kenelm stuff, so if you know any thing about that (i have a feeling it may be connected in some analeptic way) let me know more.....