Remains of Scots Pows are reburied

The remains of 17 th century Scottish prisoners of war will be reburied after skeletons were discovered during building work at Durham University.

Extensive tests were carried out after they were found five years ago. Studies showed the prisoners had been held captive in the then-empty Durham Cathedral following the 1650 Battle of Dunbar.

A simple graveside ceremony reflective of the 17th century will be held today at Elvet Hill Road Ceme - ter y, less than a mile from where they were found. People will have the opportunity to scatter a handful of Scottish soil into the grave to acknowledge the origins of many of the soldiers.

Professor Chris Gerrard, from Durham University’s Department of Archaeology, said: “It has been a privilege to research these soldiers and, having learnt so much from their remains, it was important to us to lay them to rest with respect and dignity.

“Today we are able to give these men the burial they were denied when they died almost 400 years ago.”

There burial service has been designed by Durham Cathedral. Represent at iv es from the Church of Scotland and the Scottish Episcopal Church were invited to comment.