Clothes thought to have been worn by Thomas Becket at the time of his murder in 1170 will be on display at Canterbury Cathedral this summer.

The robe, which is an artefact of huge historical importance, will be loaned to the city from the Santa Maria Maggiore church in Rome.

Venerated by pilgrims for hundreds of years, the holy relic is returning to the UK as part of commemorations to mark 850 years since the death of the saint.

It will allow visitors the rare opportunity to get up close to an artefact involved in one of history's most infamous assassinations.

There is strong evidence to support the garment's authenticity, with a 1992 study confirming that it dates to the late 12th century or early 13th century.

Becket's robe will be at the Cathedral from July 4 until August 3 this year.

It is protected by an ornate glass reliquary dating back to the 17th century.

The loan is part of Becket2020, a programme of services, events and exhibitions to mark the saint's death and legacy.

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