Hoard fund-raising gathers pace

Dozens of collectables have been donated to an auction being held this weekend as part of the Staffordshire Hoard fund-raising campaign.

The initial £3.3million to buy the Anglo-Saxon gold hoard has now been raised. The National Heritage Memorial Fund pledged almost £1.3million this week. But around another £1.7million still needs to be brought in.

This is so the collection can be properly preserved and exhibited. Auctioneer Charles Hanson, of BBC's Bargain Hunt show, will be in Stafford at the weekend to lead a fundraising valuation day and auction event.

Collection days have been held at libraries throughout the county, including Cannock Library in Manor Avenue, to gather quality antiques and collectables for him to auction off.

Staffordshire County Council spokeswoman Gina Wookey said: "We already have an extensive list of items for the auction and library users have also been generous with their financial donations."

The free event will take place at the Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, in Eastgate Road, on Saturday between 2pm and 5pm. Residents will also be able to have their items valued by Mr Hanson and his team for a £1 donation to the Hoard fund.

To book free tickets to the auction call the Gatehouse Theatre on 01785 254653. To donate items to the auction call 01785 854073.

People also have the opportunity to see one of three exclusive screenings of the new Staffordshire Hoard film in Lichfield tomorrow.

'Saxon Gold - Finding the Hoard' will take place at Lichfield Cathedral at 7.30pm. Canon Pete Wilcox of Lichfield Cathedral, urged people to go along to the event.

He said: "This is a fantastic chance to see the new Hoard film in spectacular surroundings."

Tickets are £10, and are being sold by the Lichfield Garrick. To book a ticket, visit its website www.lichfieldgarrick.com or call the box office on 01543 412121.