Memorial Type:

Monument - Other

Does the monument still exist?

Yes

Installation Date:

Not applicable

Inscription:

n/a

Allegiance:

Not applicable

Memorial Notes:

Following the Lancastrian rout after the battle, many ran to the Abbey to seek sanctuary there. The Yorkist soldiers pursued them into the building and the fighting continued within the nave area of the church. The factions were separated by the then Abbot Strensham. The Abbot explained that the fleeing Lancastrians had claimed sanctuary within the building. King Edward stated that he considered their crime to be that of treason and the Abbey was not franchised to grant protection for such a offence. The Abbot agreed to hand over the men providing that they would not be harmed. The common soldiers were released to return to their homes as Edward judged they had no choice in their participation. The lower order knights were also released upon swearing loyalty to Edward and were fined for their participation. However 17 knights and lords were judged to have been the main instigators of the uprising. They were arrested and put on trial the following day in the centre of the town. The judges were Richard, Duke of Gloucester and the John Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk and Marshal of England. All 17 were found guilty of Treason and sentenced to death and were beheaded "in the midst of the town".