Uncertain future for Bronze Age treasure dug up in football field

HERITAGE: Angus group in bid to have archaeological relics on show as part of local exhibition but decision on hoard’s destination delayed

Britain’s most extensive Bronze Age relic collection should take “pride of place” at the centre of an Angus staycation boom, it has been claimed.

But the journey involved in Scottish museum chiefs securing the archaeological riches uncovered during digging for a Carnoustie football pitch could mean it will be more than a year before a final decision is made.

The astonishing haul of relics dating back up to 2,000 years – including a leaf-shaped sword, and gold-decorated spearhead – was unearthed in 2016.

National Museums Scotland (NMS) is keen to secure the vast collection, which also features everyday objects hinting at life along the River Tay thousands of years ago.

However, the body’s director has told Scottish Conservative shadow culture secretary Maurice Golden the Carnoustie array is unlikely to be up for grabs until next year at the earliest.

Dr Chris Breward said discussions were continuing between NMS and the Angus Alive leisure trust to secure the best possible public access to the collection if a treasure trove bid succeeds.

In response to the MSP, he said: “Post-excavation work on the Carnoustie hoard has not yet reached the stage to allow formal reporting to begin the process of allocation through the Treasure Trove Scheme.

“As I understand it, the hoard is likely to come before the Scottish Archaeological Finds Allocation Panel (SAFAP) at some point next year, at the earliest. The option for Angus Alive to bid for allocation of course remains open.

“National Museums Scotland is interested in acquiring the hoard and as a result has discussed this interest informally with colleagues at Angus Alive museum service, in advance of any formal process.

“Colleagues at Angus have communicated their interest in applying for some of the hoard on loan should it be allocated to NMS and this has been discussed by our collections committee.”

Mr Golden said he hoped the vitally important post-pandemic staycation market would eventually reap the benefit of the remarkable find.

“Angus has waited a long time for this significant collection to come home,” said the MSP. “There are UK collections which would regard these items as a centrepiece.

“Unfortunately, the timescale involved is mainly due to the complicated nature of the application process.”

Part of the haul of relics, dating back 2,000 years, that were unearthed during work in Carnoustie in 2016.