Castle funeral re-enacted by David Starkey (From Cotswold Journal)

Castle funeral re-enacted by David Starkey

9:00am Tuesday 28th August 2012 in News

THIS summer’s series of events at Sudeley Castle marking the 500th anniversary of the birth of Queen Katherine Parr, last wife of Henry VIII, reaches its climax on Sunday, September 9, with a renactment of her funeral service. Following the death of Henry VIII, Queen Katherine married the love of her life, Thomas Seymour, and moved to Sudeley where she died after giving birth to a daughter.

For the first time, the castle, along with renowned historian Dr David Starkey, will re-enact her funeral and visitors will take on the roles of royal guests from the Tudor Court who attended the service and become part of history in the making.

Throughout the historic procession and service in St Mary’s Chapel at the castle, Dr Starkey will explain why, through this service, Winchcombe became one of the birthplaces of the English church. A strong believer in the Reformist movement, Queen Katherine’s funeral was the first service to be conducted in English and not Latin, as had been the tradition.

“Here is the moment that the Church of England was truly established,” said Dr Starkey.

There will be two re-enactments, one at 10.30am and one at 2.30pm Following the morning service there will be a seated lunch where Dr Starkey will give a talk.