PERMISSION for analysis of the bones that may be King Alfred the Great has moved a step closer.

The Hyde 900 community group has formally applied for permission study the bones which were exhumed amid secrecy from a grave at a Winchester church in March.

A final decision by the chancellor of the Diocese of Winchester is now expected within a few weeks.

The Hampshire Chronicle revealed last October that steps were being taken by Rev Cliff Bannister to exhume the remains at St Bartholomew’s church in Hyde.