They fear that the “pretty reckless” new film, The Lost King, will reduce their role in the extraordinary historical find.
They added that: “Quite simply, without the singleminded and unwavering determination of Philippa Langley, a smart, committed amateur historian, the remains of King Richard III would still be undiscovered.”
Langley, played by Sally Hawkins in the film, is a passionate member of the Richard III Society and the woman who persuaded the local council and the University of Leicester to start the dig.
With the premiere of The Lost King at the Toronto film festival next month, the monarch is once again caught up in controversy.