WALKS retracing Richard III’s steps around York will begin next week in response to interest in the king’s life since his remains were discovered.

The free 90-minute public tours around the city-centre have been created and will be led by City of York Council archaeologist John Oxley as part of the Richard III: Rumour and Reality project A “wining and dining” tour begins at 2pm next Wednesday at the Mansion House and finishes at the site of the Percy family mansion in Fossgate, taking in Guildhall, the site of a Lendal friary, Barley Hall, Shambles and Lady Peckitt’s Yard.

On October 16, the “praying” walk starts at 2pm at York Minster’s west door and includes the cathedral’s library, St William’s College, Bedern, King’s Square and St Sampson’s and St Helen’s Churches, finishing in Lendal.

A maximum of 25 people can take part in each walk. To book email archaeology@york.gov.uk or phone 01904 551346 or 551671.

Coun Sonja Crisp, cabinet member for culture and tourism, said: “In addition to his professional expertise, John is a fantastic storyteller and these walks should be essential for anybody interested in 15th and early 16th Century York’s history, archaeology and culture.”