Oswiu, King of Bernicia, head of the…

Oswiu, King of Bernicia, head of the rival Northumbrian royal family, in 642 sends a priest named Utta to Kent, which is at this time ruled by Eanflæd's cousin, Eorcenberht, to ask for her hand in marriage.

Oswiu already had been married, to a British princess, named Rieinmellt, but as King Penda of Mercia, the victor of Maserfield, dominates central Britain, Oswiu is in need of support.

Marriage with Eanflæd would provide Kentish, and perhaps Frankish, support, and any children Oswiu and Eanflæd might have would have strong claims to all of Northumbria.

The date of the marriage is not recorded.