David Wilson Homes unearths local history

Members of the Earl Shilton Local History Society were treated to an exclusive viewing of the Earl Shilton Stone Coffin at David Wilson East Midlands' The Lanterns development last Thursday before it is moved to its new home at The Battle of Bosworth Heritage Centre in Sutton Cheney.

The Earl Shilton Stone Coffin was discovered by local gardener Reg Colver where it was being used as part of a water feature in a garden on land which is now owned by David Wilson. Some believe it could be that of King Richard III's and since its excavation in November it has attracted much media attention and even featured on BBC 1's The One Show. The coffin has been looked after at David Wilson's development so that local people could come and take a special look.

Over 30 members visited the development on Candle Lane, where they were shown the fascinating historical artefact and given a talk by local archaeologist Richard Knox from the Battle of Bosworth Heritage Centre, who also answered any questions the budding historians had.

Linda Bent, Secretary for the Society says "As a local group, our members are fascinated with all aspects of the town's history so we were thrilled when David Wilson Homes invited us to view the stone coffin while it remains at the place it was excavated.

"Having grown up in the area, a lot of our members remember the home and gardens when it belonged to the Cotton family and we have fond memories of attending village fetes in the grounds when we were young- so it was nice to come back and see how it's been developed.

"It was an interesting and enjoyable morning for everyone who went down and we would like to thank David Wilson Homes for allowing us this wonderful viewing, which was made extra special by Richard Knox being there to explain its possible origins."

Philip Lacey, Sales Director for David Wilson says "It's fantastic to see local people taking such an active interest in the stone coffin and this is exactly why we decided to temporarily keep it at the development to allow groups like the history society to come and see this exciting piece of history whilst still on their doorstep.

"Stone coffins are a rare find and it's unlikely another will be found in the Earl Shilton area so I'm thrilled David Wilson has been a part of this exciting project and that so many residents were able to come down and see the coffin for themselves before we donate it to the Battle of Bosworth Heritage Centre."

The stone coffin will now be moved to its permanent home at The Battle of Bosworth Heritage Centre where from the 1st February it will be put on shown for the general public. There will be an exclusive official unveiling on Friday 30th January.

Situated on Candle Lane, The Lanterns is a stunning collection of one-, two-, three- and four- bedroom homes in a picturesque mature setting.

Prices for homes at the development start from £89,950.

For more information, log on to Dwh.co.uk.