Miles FitzWalter of Gloucester, 1st Earl of Hereford, was a powerful figure in the west of England. He inherited land in Wales from his wife and acquired other large estates, including the Lordship of Abergavenny and St Briavel's Castle. These lands became known as the "Barony of Miles of Gloucester". Miles had three daughters, who inherited different parts of his barony. Miles was known for his public policy, but there is limited information about his personal character. He founded a priory near Gloucester Castle and many of his descendants were buried there. Miles of Gloucester, 1st Earl of Hereford, was the son of Walter of Gloucester, who was the hereditary Sheriff of Gloucestershire and the Constable of England under King Henry I. Miles's grandfather, Roger de Pitres, was also a Sheriff of Gloucestershire. Miles of Gloucester, 1st Earl of Hereford, married Sibyl de Neufmarché in 1121 and gained her father's possessions. He held various positions of power and was a supporter of Empress Matilda. He played a significant role in supporting Matilda's cause and was granted the town and castle of Hereford, as well as other lands and titles. However, his demands for money from church lands led to conflict with the Bishop of Hereford. On Christmas-eve in 1143, Miles of Gloucester was accidentally killed while hunting by a stray arrow. There was a dispute over who would have possession of his body between the canons of his own foundation, Llanthony Secunda, and the monks of Gloucester. The issue was resolved by a compromise and Miles of Gloucester was buried in the chapter house at Llanthony. Miles of Gloucester was succeeded by his son Roger Fitzmiles, who later died without an heir. The Earldom of Hereford then became extinct and the family possessions were passed on to Miles' sisters and their descendants. Bertha of Hereford brought Abergavenny to William de Braose, while Margaret of Hereford received the bulk of the possessions, which later became the Earls of Hereford and Constables of England.

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