Thousands snap up Staffordshire Hoard Lichfield tickets

More than 4,000 people have snapped up tickets to see the Staffordshire Hoard when it arrives at Lichfield Cathedral this summer — just three weeks after tickets were released.

The free timed entry tickets have been reserved by visitors from all over the world, it was claimed today.

Evening tours of the Staffordshire Hoard in which visitors are given exclusive access to the exhibition in groups of 30, have proved most popular with nearly half of those tickets already gone. The display will be in the city from July 30 to August 21.

The collection of Anglo-Saxon gold was discovered just four miles away from the cathedral by the metal detector of Terry Herbert and has been dubbed the most important archaeological discovery of the past century. Canon Pete Wilcox, chancellor of Lichfield Cathedral, warned people to book early to avoid missing out.

He said: "We have been delighted with the overwh-elming response to the arri-val of the Staffordshire Hoard this summer.

"I would urge visitors to make sure they have booked their place to see these exq-uisite pieces of Anglo-Saxon craftsmanship, as well as our own Cathedral treasures."

More than 40 iconic items including the folded cross, the biblical inscription and the seahorse as well as some newly-conserved pieces will be on show.

Tickets for timed entry slots and paid tours are still available through the Lichfield Garrick Box Office.

Visitors will be invited to make donations to help conserve, research and display the Hoard in the future.

People can choose from free 40 minute timed entry tours for up to 30 people at a time in 20 minute intervals; a 45 minute daytime story telling which costs £5; and a 90 minute Staffordshire Hoard evening experience which lasts 90 minutes and costs £15 per person.

To book, call Lichfield Garrick box office on 01543 412121. Some bookings can also be made online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com

The tour is at the Shire Hall in Stafford from July 2 to 24, and at Tamworth Castle from August 27 to September 18.