Raise profile of the 'last stand' village

I must congratulate the Mercury on your extensive coverage of the confirmation that the skeleton unearthed at the site of the former Grey Friars church has turned out to be King Richard III.

Your 12-page special edition on Tuesday covered many interesting angles, human, historical and archaeological, of the extensive research that contributed to the conclusion that the remains were indeed those of the last English king to die in battle.

Leicester University and many others in the city come out of this with great credit.

I was, however, disappointed that an error crept into the detail of the battle itself. This seemed to accept the now discredited location of the battle site.

Cheap Van Insurance For 17,18 & 19 Year Old Drivers - Call...

Insure365

View details

Print voucher

Cheap Van Insurance For 17,18 & 19 Year Old Drivers - Call Insure365 01782 898188, Free Legal Expenses Included valued at £25.00!

Terms: 1 Voucher Per Customer

Contact: 01782 898188

Valid until: Saturday, June 22 2013

It has now been established that the site of the battle was not Ambion Hill at the Battle of Bosworth Heritage Centre, excellent though this is at interpreting the events in the locality.

The place where King Richard III lost his life was on the edge of the village of Stoke Golding in former marsh close to Fen Lane.

Stoke Golding being the closest settlement to the battle should now become better known for its part in these major historical events and the place nearest to the slaying of a king. Crown Hill in the village is already known as the place where Henry Tudor had Richard's crown placed upon his head after the battle. The church is also reputed to have played a role both before and after the battle. Hopefully the planning system can now help to protect the village and its surroundings from unsuitable development that will detract from the major historical significance now confirmed and likely to result in greater visitor interest.

Bernard Lamb, Nuneaton.