HAMPSHIRE has been found to be one of the best regions in the UK for aspiring treasure hunters.

Out of the 10 regions listed with the most treasure discoveries in the past 12 months, include Norfolk (6,527), Leicestershire (4,101), Suffolk (3,105), Lincolnshire (2,650), Hampshire (2,006), Wiltshire (1,689), Oxfordshire (1,647), North Yorkshire (1,508), East Riding of Yorkshire (1,322) and Somerset (1,209).

Out of these statistics, 2,006 items in Hampshire were discovered by metal detectorists since June 2019.

Research from metals4U found that over 44,000 historical items have been unearthed across the country during that time (120 per day).

Managing director of metals4U, Paul McFayden, said: “It’s incredible to see the number and variety of discoveries in the past 12 months, from as far back as 4,000BC and throughout the ages. The data shows that there is still plenty out there to discover.

“With many staying in the UK this summer, we wanted to highlight metal detecting as a fun pass-time that you can enjoy outdoors whilst social distancing and hopefully inspire people to have a go!”

Many detectors dream of finding gold and in the last year, 216 items made from the sought-after metal were discovered in the UK.

Hampshire was the gold capital, with 25 objects unearthed, including a 7th-century pendant.

In Norfolk, coins (2,142) were the most commonly found object, followed by buckles (450), pots (206) and brooches (201).

In Hampshire, a gold ring was uncovered, belonging to a class of artefact known as ‘hair-rings’ and ‘ring-money’.

Their function remains uncertain, although it it likely they were personal adornments, possibly worn on the ears or nose, rather than being hair-ornaments or items of exchange.

To find out more information, you can visit www.metals4u.co.uk.