The plaque will be installed as part of Selby Civic Society's ongoing drive to stimulate interest in the unique history and rich heritage of the town.

King Henry I, the fourth son of William the Conqueror, was born at the old Parochial Church which was to be found in what has become Church Hill (click on map image to enlarge).  The ancient wooden structure stood roughly where the Three Swans pub and Masonic Lodge can be found today.

Probably most infamous for fathering between 20 and 25 illegitimate children (a Royal record!), Henry's reign lasted for 35 years between 1100 and 1135.  He died of food poisoning in 1135 and is buried at Reading Abbey.

Other historic figures and locations in the town already marked with commemorative plaques include the railway goods shed on Ousegate, once Yorkshire's first railway station, the ancient monastic 'Tythe Barn' on The Quay and the birthplace of eminent scientist Smithson Tennant in Finkle Street.

The plaque will be installed on the railings at Selby Abbey and is to be unveiled at noon on Friday by Charles Forbes-Adam, High Steward of Selby Abbey.

Selby Civic Society are also promoting an event to be held on Thursday at 7.30pm at the Methodist Chapel, where further information about Henry will be available.  Also showing are three films about 'Bygone Selby'.