 The FitzWalters held estates across Essex, as well as properties in London and Norfolk.John FitzWalter played a prominent role during the early years of King Edward III's wars in France, and at some point FitzWalter was married to Eleanor Percy, the daughter of Henry, Lord Percy.FitzWalter built a strong affinity around him, mainly from among leading members of the county's gentry, but also including men from elsewhere, such as a Norfolk parson.