History exhibition opening at Upper Basildon

Two metal detectorists plan to hold their first findings exhibition showcasing more than 2,000 years of local history.

Calcot residents Jeff Nelson and Ricky Mitchell invite the community to attend their exhibition at Upper Basildon Village Hall on Friday, March 31, between noon and 7pm.

Everyone is welcome to go along and experience the diverse array of historical artefacts the pair have accumulated over the past 11 months.

They encourage visitors to bring any of their own findings to be recorded as part of the village's history.

Tea, coffee and cakes will be supplied by Mr Nelson.

Upper Basildon author Clive Williams OBE, who assists the pair with historical research, will also have some of his books on sale.

Last Sunday (March 5), Mr Nelson and Mr Mitchell supervised a small delegation on a day out detecting, with drinks at The Red Lion afterwards.

Mr Nelson urges any new detectorists to shop around before buying any equipment and invites those with a genuine interest to follow his progress on Facebook: Jeff & Ricky's History Beneath Our Feet.

Under the Treasure Act of 1996, all items of treasure including coins, weapons and jewellery, must be reported to the local coroner within 14 days of their discovery and all treasures found on council land remain the property of West Berkshire Council.

Finds liaison officer for Berkshire Philip Smither holds regular finds surgeries at West Berkshire Museum and Berkshire Record Office.

Please contact Mr Smither on Philip.Smither1@westberks.gov.uk to record a potential treasure find.