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NAME TYPE MATERIAL DATE Richard Roberts Recumbent knight Freestone 1644

Now under an arch in the south aisle this effigy, according to Nichols, was originally painted in blue, red and gilt. It depicts Sir Richard lying recumbent in the medieval tradition, a style that was almost obsolete by the time of his death. Indeed, one wonders if it was recycled, especially as this is a very late example of a freestone effigy and it is depicted in a style of armour so long out of date. The bare head, with long curling hair reaching down to the shoulders, is resting on a plumed helmet. Bearded, Roberts has a large ruff round his neck, while the hands, which were in prayer, nose and feet are now missing. This mutilation, so tradition tells us, was caused by Cromwell's soldiers seeking revenge on Sir Richard who had been an ardent Royalist and named by Charles as a captain in the Regional Commission of Array. Sir Richard's arms (Per pale argent and gules, a lion rampant sable) are set above in the tomb recess while the simple inscription reads: Here lyeth buried the body of Sir Richard Roberts knight aged 80 years Oct 30 Anno Dom 1644. Sepulchral Effigies of Leicestershire and Rutland Text copyright Max Matthews 2002. Selected text copyright Bob Trubshaw 2025–6. Images copyright Max Matthews 2002 or Bob Trubshaw 2002, 2025–6. No copying or reproduction without prior written permission. Published by Heart of Albion Press Back to top of this page This website does not gather or store any visitor information.