York, please just let this matter rest
The discovery of Richard III's remains in our city has captured the world's attention and focused much interest on the controversial king and, of course, Leicester itself. Attention that it seems has sparked jealousy – and you would have to say opportunism – from the City of York.
Political leaders and the Yorkshire tourism agencies have launched a campaign to have England's last Plantagenet King's remains taken from our city and interred at York Minster.
It would be easy to get angry and launch into a war of words with York, but let's examine their argument.
"He is described as the country's only northern king and should be returned to Yorkshire, his childhood and spiritual home."
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Yes, but where? York is the argument, but his childhood home was more than 50 miles away. It is hardly compelling.
"York Minster is where he wished to be buried". There is no real evidence to support that claim and the Dean of York Minster is adamant that Leicester Cathedral is where he should be interred.
The claim by York seems to be more based on the potential tourism benefits, rather than any true spiritual or moral argument.
Leicester's mayor Sir Peter Soulsby has been angered by the claims. He points out: "This claim from York is absurd and a complete non-starter. It may generate some column inches for the local paper, but this matter has already been decided."
Sir Peter is referring to Government licence issued for the archeological dig, which stated that if Richard's remains were found, they should be interred in Leicester.
There is really no need for this city to enter into any argument with York on this matter. Richard will be interred in Leicester Cathedral.
It might also be pointed out that Richard has been buried in our city for the past 500 years in the less-than-glorious setting of a council car park.
Leicester can now give him a much more appropriate final resting place just yards away, in our cathedral, and a service befitting that of our monarch.
Please York, let the matter rest.
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