It was eerie working in the grave of Richard III

The damage was caused in 2024 but the delay on the repair work resulted from the need to find rare reinforced glass to replace the cracked glazing.

Stonemasons removed benches near the site before a crane was used to lift the heavy glass panel.

A platform was then constructed over the grave site and covered with a tarpaulin to protect the area from falling glass and silicone.

Of the accidental damage, a council spokesperson said: “A visitor sitting next to the grave site stood up, and the glass bottle he had in the thigh pocket of his cargo trousers fell out and shattered on the glazed floor.

“The impact caused a small chip in the top layer of the triple-glazed glass panel, which radiated out as a distinct crack across the panel.”

The cost of the repairs was largely covered by an insurance claim, the council added.

Visitor centre manager Phil Hackett told the BBC: “The visitor was mortified by what happened but it was completely accidental – one of those really unfortunate things.

“The crack was very distinct and only the top layer of the triple-glazed panel was damaged.

“Understandably some people were nervous about treading on it although it was very, very safe.

“I’m glad to say it is now looking as good as new and the grave has been unaffected.”