A REPLICA of Richard III’s standard has been raised above his childhood home for the first time in more than 500 years.

The ceremony took place to launch the Richard III weekend taking place at Middleham Castle, in North Yorkshire, on July 5, 6 and 7 on the 530th anniversary of his coronation.

The castle was a favourite of the king - it was where he lived during his own adolescence, as well as in later life with Queen Anne and their son Edward of Middleham, the Prince of Wales.

Tammi Tolhurst, mayor of Middleham, said: “We are extremely proud of our castle here in Middleham, which dominates the town. Once the childhood home of Richard III, it would have been an incredibly lavish structure complete with a superb Great Hall built for entertaining and impressing guests.

“We are delighted to be part of the celebrations to commemorate Richard III and to welcome him back to his childhood home, and in light of the wonderful discovery of his remains to be able to share his fascinating story. He will always be Yorkshire’s king and holds a place of deep affection with his loyal Yorkshire subjects.”

The Richard III weekend will include re-enactments at the castle, a country market in the market place, a hog roast, craft fair and wandering minstrels.