Norfolk County Council admits losing landowner's Roman finds

Mike Walsh handed over an ancient coin and decorative horse boss dating back to around 175AD to be recorded for posterity in December, 2018 after they were found on his land near Brancaster.

Almost six years later, they have not been returned as officials say they are still looking for them.

In a statement, the council said it was carrying out "a thorough search".

The Roman coin and horse boss found on Mike Walsh's land (Image: Mike Walsh)

Retired advertising executive Mr Walsh, who wanted the relics returned so he could add them to his collection, said the response was "not acceptable".

He added: "There are two scenarios. The first that the items are still in the building. The second is that they have been stolen.

"The answer is they are given a month to conduct a thorough search of the building.

"If they don’t turn up then they report to the police that they have been stolen and there is a police investigation.

Mike Walsh said the council's response is not acceptable (Image: Chris Bishop)

"I can’t believe I’m the only one this has happened to with such sloppiness. With this response would you hand in a valuable find to them?"

The council said it records more than 10,000 unique objects every year and losses were "extremely rare".

It added: "We will endeavour to resolve this issue and we are committed to learning any lessons from this incident.

"Finds reported to us by members of the public make an incredible contribution to the way we understand Norfolk’s historic environment.

"It also provides members of the public a chance to engage with the county’s heritage and we would encourage everyone to continue doing so.”