Thomas Bilney (c.1495-1531) English Christian Martyr

Thomas was born around 1495 in Norwich. He became a protestant martyr.
He is believed to be the person who converted Hugh Latimer to the doctrines of the Reformers- he also died a martyr.

Around 1550 , aged only 15, he entered Trinity Hall, Cambridge University where he studied law.

Conversion
He was ‘struck’ by these words from 1 Timothy ch1 v15
This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came onto the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
‘Immediately I felt a marvellous comfort and quietness, in so much that my bruised bones lept for joy.’
Scripture became his chief study and In 1519 he took holy orders.

In 1525 he obtained a license to preach throughout the diocese of Ely.

In 1527 he was arrested for heresy. He recanted and was released but in 1531 he
was arrested again for spreading ideas critical of the hierarchical structure of the church and the cult of the saints, For this he was burnt at Lollards Pit, in Norwich,on 19 August 1531.
Afterwards it was alleged that his execution had been carried out without the proper authorisation by the state. THe result was Bishop Nix in 1534 was condemned on this charge and had his property confiscated.

( Thomas was nicknamed Little Bilney because of his short stature.)

Source
Wikipedia