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Richard of Chichester, also known as Richard de Wych, lost his parents as a child. His elder brother was too young to inherit the estates so the land was subject to feudal wardship. On coming of age his brother had to pay a medieval form of death duties. This left the family impoverished and Richard had to work for his brother. The elder brother made Richard heir to the estate but he reconveyed it back to his brother preferring a life of study and the church.

He studied at the University of Oxford, under Edmund of Abingdon, and then taught there. He then went to Paris and Bologna where he distinguished himself in canon law. Back in the UK he was elected Oxford’s chancellor in 1235.

Edmund, now Archbishop of Canterbury (A of C), appointed him chancellor to the diocese of Canterbury in 1237. Richard joined him in Pontigny when he was exiled. Edmund died in 1240.

He decided to become a priest and for 2 years he studied Theology with the Domunicans at Orleans.

Back in the UK became priest at Charing and Deal. Quickly reappointed chancellor of Canterbury by new A of C, Boniface of Savoy.

1244 elected Bishop of Chichester -Henry lll and part of chapter unhappy with appointment but Pope Innocent lV confirmed his election

He was merciless to usurers, corrupt clergy and priest who mumbled the mass. He was a stickler for clerical privilege. He produced a body of statutes with the help of his chapter.

His term in office (1244-1253) was marked by the favour which he showed to the Dominicans and his earnestness in preaching a crusade.

Pilgrims visiting the Shrine of St. Richard believed miracles happened.
Level of popularity approached those who visited the shrine of Thomas Becket in Canterbury.

HenryVlll had the shrine destroyed in 1538. Nearly 400 years later it was re-established in 1930 by Dean Duncan Jones. (Read paragraphs on** Shrine**)

Sources
Wikipedia
Oxford Dictionary of Saints by David Farmer