A historic piece of jewellery linked to Richard III and his reign is to be auctioned in Etwall.

A stunning gold brooch which was found at Kirby Muxloe Castle, in Leicestershire, is dated to the second half of the 15th century and was discovered near the moat.

The fortress was being built by nobleman William Hastings when he was executed by Richard just a month before he took the crown and it is thought the heart-shaped brooch may have been a gift from Hastings to his wife, Katherine.

Bearing the French inscription "honor et joie" which translates as honour and joy, it was unearthed in 2016 by a metal detectorist and eagle-eyed buyers will be given the opportunity to purchase the item on Wednesday, August 23.

Hastings was a close friend and ally of Edward IV and on the king's death in 1483 had supported Richard of Gloucester in his role as Lord Protector.

But with Richard looking to take the crown, and Hastings a champion of Edward's son's claim to the throne, Richard had him arrested and, just hours later, executed.

While it has no names on it, the brooch would have only been worn by a high-status woman.

Charles Hanson, of Hansons Auctioneers, said: "It is remarkable to think that this brooch may have been a gift to Katherine from William Hastings.

"It is a true sweetheart brooch. It is likely it fell from her gown while she was strolling through the castle grounds."

The brooch is expected to fetch between £6,000 and £8,000.