York marks reburial of King Richard III

Events are being held across York today to mark the reburial of Richard the Third.

The last King of the House of York is being re-interned in Leicester Cathedral after his remains were found during an archaeological dig.

King Richard III's coffin arrives outside Leicester Cathedral, next to a statue of Richard III. Credit: PA Wire

University of Leicester archaeologists discovered the king under a council car park in the city in 2012, after a campaign to find him led by Philippa Langley.

An extensive series of scientific tests established the skeleton, found in a grave too short for his body, was that of the last Yorkist king.

However, his final rest was delayed by months after distant relatives brought an unsuccessful legal challenge through the courts arguing he should be reburied in York.

Actor Benedict Cumberbatch. Credit: PA Wire

Hollywood actor Benedict Cumberbatch is to read a specially written poem at the re-burial of Richard III.

The Imitation Game star is a distant relative of the last Plantagenet king.

His reading is happening at a Leicester Cathedral service in which the king's coffin, containing his mortal remains, is lowered into a specially made tomb of Swaledale stone inside Leicester Cathedral, later.

King Richard III's coffin inside Leicester Cathedral where he will be reburied. Credit: PA Wire

It is reported the Queen has also written a tribute in the order of service acknowledging Richard's role in British history.

There will be a a Choral Evensong in memory of the King at York Minster at 5.15pm.