The team behind the discovery of the remains of Richard III are to launch a search for King Harold in Waltham Abbey and are hoping to "change history".

Oval Films will carry out an initial ground scan in Abbey Gardens, Waltham Abbey, next week.

There are theories that Harold was given a formal funeral at the Abbey Church of Waltham Holy Cross and St Lawrence years after his death at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.

However, he is also believed to have been dismembered by his killers after being shot in the eye with an arrow during the battle.

The search is being sponsored by author Peter Burke, who has written two historical novels and has different theories about Harold II’s death.

He said: “I am convinced Harold survived the Battle of Hastings.

“If we find the complete remains of an old man in his late 70's with scarring to his temple from a battle wound then we need to do a DNA test.

“Our understanding of this particular period of English history would have to change.”

David Hatton of Oval films said “We are very excited by the whole concept that there is another, even more plausible, story to the life and times of King Harold.

“If we find what we are hoping then this could change history.”

The remains of Richard III were discovered beneath a car park in Leicester in 2012.