Historian and MP calls for a state funeral
An historian and Tory MP has called for a full state funeral for King Richard III, if remains discovered beneath a car park prove to be those of the medieval monarch.
Chris Skidmore, author of a book about the king's bloody final battle, said he hoped that DNA tests would show the skeleton found beneath the Greyfriars car park is that of the Plantagenet ruler.
Mr Skidmore, whose book on the Battle of Bosworth is due to be published next year, said: "If it is found to be the body of Richard III then it would probably be one of the most significant archaeological finds of the century, arguably of the last 50 years.''
He said all English monarchs are traditionally accorded a state funeral, and Richard's significance was such that he too should receive the final honour.
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Mr Skidmore, who has tabled a Commons early day motion calling for the state funeral, suggested the body could either be laid to rest in Westminster Abbey, alongside his queen Anne Neville, or in York Minister
The cost of a state funeral, which could be conducted in a modern way or using the Yorkist traditions of Richard's time, could be offset by an expected increase in tourism.
"The eyes of the world would be focused on it,'' he said.
Comments
by New_Walk_View
Tuesday, September 18 2012, 4:16PM
“I remember Winston Churchill's state funeral and, even as a six-year old, I was aware of the immense weight of the occasion. Learning more about it since, there seemed to be a shared sense of the passing of greatness which extended the length and breadth of the country. The nation was, genuinely, in mourning.
It's difficult to see what form of ceremony would be appropriate for Richard but I can't help thinking that any attempt to recreate that sort of grand national event would be a mistake; as would reburying his remains at Westminster Abbey or York Minster. It might make a good spectacle but it would be a hollow one. Much more appropriate (historically and otherwise) to adopt Bob491's suggestion and lay him to rest with dignity at Leicester Cathedral.
On a related subject, does anyone know whether there is a connection between Anne Neville, Nevill Holt near Uppingham and the Nevill Arms in Medbourne?”
by redcat
Tuesday, September 18 2012, 3:37PM
“by CGLeeTuesday, September 18 2012, 8:41AM
"This is too silly for words. This is a grave site and should not have been disturbed. Put the bones back where you found them and let whoever it is rest in peace."
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Don't you think that being buried in a car park is a little disrespectful for a King though? Especially one who played such an important part in English history. I presume Leicester City Council will want it's car park back at some point. I know people have been parking on Richard for the last few decades but surely it is different now they would know that is happening if they just 'put him back'. It wont be a very peaceful last resting place.”
by CGLee
Tuesday, September 18 2012, 8:41AM
“This is too silly for words. This is a grave site and should not have been disturbed. Put the bones back where you found them and let whoever it is rest in peace.”
by llamalamb
Tuesday, September 18 2012, 7:48AM
“I agree with a state funeral but only if it is held in Leicester and Richard buried in the cathedral grounds. What a tourist attraction that would be for the city.”
by Bob491
Monday, September 17 2012, 11:45PM
“No way should King Richard III's remains be removed from Leicester. He has been here for over 500 years and here he should stay.
Where in York is there a statue of him? Where in London is there a statue of him?
Nowhere of course, because they have never been bothered about him. However we have a statue of King Richard III here in Leicester's Castle Park, because this is his home. It is here that he is wanted.
But by all means bring his wife Anne's remains to lay beside him in Leicester Cathedral. She has been quite insignificant at Westminster Abbey.”