A campaign group has renewed calls to create a Saxon King exhibition in Priory Park.

Saxon King in Priory Park, known as Skipp, believes the restored Prittlewell Priory Museum would be an ideal site for the Saxon King artefacts, discovered close by five years ago, and other Saxon artefacts uncovered in the area since the 19th century.

Campaign organiser Patsy Link pointed out funding had already been agreed for the restoration of Prittlewell Priory Musem and the construction of new outbuildings. She said: “English Heritage has so far pledged £142,000 and subject to plans being agreed, work could start in early 2009 and be completed in 2010.

“There is widespread support for this initiative as some of us would like to see it in our lifetime.

“We would expect Priory Park and the museum to be a popular tourist attraction, bringing more revenue and recognition to our town.

“The group wants to make it clear we are not opposed to the council’s plans to site a museum and art gallery in a seafront location.

“However, we are adamant the Saxon King’s grave goods should be housed in the Prittlewell Priory Museum, a stone’s throw from where he lived, ruled, died and was buried.”

Derek Jarvis, Southend councillor responsible for culture, said: “I hope I can meet the group together with the council’s officers.

“I would be happy to talk to Patsy about the council’s position and listen to their proposals.”