The largest hoard of Saxon gold treasure ever found. It will redefine the dark ages.

Leader Philip Atkins vows to do justice to the unique Staffordshire Hoard

The Hoard is the largest ever find of Anglo-Saxon gold treasure, and is unparalleled in terms of size and quality.

It consists of over 1,500 items, probably dating from the seventh or eight centuries.

The Hoard was discovered on farmland in southern Staffordshire in July this year.

Philip Atkins said: "This is a world class find, and possibly the most significant treasure discovery in the British Isles since the Sutton Hoo excavations of 1939."

"When the South Staffordshire Coroner, Andrew Haigh, formerly declared the Hoard to be treasure earlier today it cleared the way for the Hoard to be acquired by a museum."

"Staffordshire County Council will play a full role in this process in the best interests of the people of Staffordshire. This is our heritage and we need to do it justice".

"This will be a lengthy and complex process. It is also important to note that this will be a partnership effort. Our neighbouring authorities in Stoke-on-Trent and Birmingham have also expressed an interest in the acquisition. Other significant players in the process will include The British Museum and English Heritage."

Philip also paid tribute to the work by the county council's Historic Environment Team to recover the Hoard.

He said: "The security of the site was always of the utmost concern, but I was kept informed of progress throughout, as was the local county councillor.

"It has been a difficult and demanding task and required consummate professionalism working with colleagues from the Portable Antiquities Scheme.

"This effort has been fully justified. This is an outstanding discovery and places Staffordshire in the international spotlight."

More information is available at www.staffordshirehoard.org.uk

Page Last Modified: 25/09/2009 11:18:22

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