HM The Queen thanks University of Leicester in message for Richard III reinterment

Her Majesty The Queen has thanked the University of Leicester in a message written for the reinterment ceremony of King Richard III on Thursday 26 March.

The message reads: “The reinterment of Richard III is an event of great national and international significance. Today we recognise a King who lived through turbulent times and whose Christian faith sustained him in life and death.

“The discovery of his remains in Leicester has been described as one of the most significant archaeological finds in this country’s history.

“King Richard III, who died aged 32 in 1485 during the Battle of Bosworth, will now lie in peace in the City of Leicester in the heart of England.

“I have fond memories of my visit to Leicester Cathedral in 2012 and I am delighted to learn that its re-ordering has been completed in time for the reinterment Service.

“I send my sincere thanks to the University of Leicester, members of the Church and other authorities in Leicester who have made this important occasion possible.“

Throughout the week many thousands of people have lined the streets to celebrate King Richard III’s final journey to the Cathedral. During the ceremony on 26 March nearly 600 people gathered in the Cathedral to see the last Plantagenet king laid to rest, while thousands more gathered at Jubilee Square and the Clock Tower to watch the service unfold on big screens.