Schoolchildren to create bags to hold bones of Richard III

Pupils at King Richard III Infant School are playing an historic part in the reinterment of Richard III by creating special bags that will hold small bones - such as those from his hands - which will then be laid inside the coffin.

During the event, which takes place on Friday 13 February, pupils will be able to meet lead archaeologist on the Grey Friars dig, Dr Richard Buckley of the University of Leicester Archaeological Services (ULAS) who will be accompanied by a former pupil of the school, Jim Butler.

Both Dr Buckley and Jim will be talking to the youngsters about the reinterment and answering inquisitive questions from dozens of eager young minds.

Jim is also organising a huge Richard III-related public engagement event at the University campus on Saturday 21 March - the weekend before the reburial on Thursday 26 March.

The rest of the king’s skeleton will be laid out inside a lead inner casket, made by Dr Jon Castleman of Norman and Underwood. The outer wooden coffin has been designed and created by Richard III’s 17th great grandnephew, and London cabinet maker, Michael Ibsen.

The coffin will be placed in a brick lined vault and sealed by a block of Swaledale stone, with a deep-carved cross. It will sit on top of a plinth of dark Kilkenny marble carved with Richard's coat of arms, name, dates and motto – Loyaulte Me Lie (loyalty binds me).

Watch a video of schoolchildren making bags for the remains of Richard III:

• The Dig for Richard III was led by the University of Leicester, working with Leicester City Council and in association with the Richard III Society. The originator of the Search project was Philippa Langley of the Richard III Society.
• Press Release