YORK may have lost out as the final resting place of infamous monarch Richard III but it has come up with the crowning glory for his funeral.

In 1485 when Richard died, kings were traditionally buried with due pomp and ceremony and a special funeral crown. However, Richard was killed at the battle of Bosworth, and buried by his captors without any ceremony in the nearest city of Leicester, so historians have created the crown that never was.

Ricardian historian Dr John Ashdown-Hill commissioned the 15th century-style coronet, which is on display for two months at the Richard III Experience in Monk Bar in York before it starts a tour of the country.

The crown was constructed by a medieval jewellery expert,with the enamelled white roses of the House of York, alongside pearls, emeralds and turquoises.

Dr Ashdown-Hill was one of the leading figures in the search for Richard’s body and was inspired to commission the crown whilst carrying the box containing his remains.

“Although circumstances dictated that Richard did not wear a crown during his own burial, the new crown will be used as part of the medieval sovereign's interment service,” he said.

Sarah Maltby, Director at Jorvik group, which runs the Richard III Experience, said: “Richard III’s reign may have been short but his influence on York cannot be underestimated.

"The Richard III Experience is the perfect place for people to explore Richard’s life and reign and we are excited to have access to the replica crown."

The Funeral Crown will be on display until early July .