In order to get from Valognes to Bayeux and Caen the English had to cross at the mouth of the Vire great sands which were passable only at low tide.

A weak body of French under command of the Count de Clermont had orders to cut them off from this passage.

The English, however, succeeded in forcing it; but just as they were taking position, with the village of Formigny to cover their rear, the constable De Richemont was seen coming up with three thousand men in fine order.

The English were already strongly intrenched, when the battle began.

"Let us go and look close in their faces, admiral," said the constable to Sire de Coetivi.