The Specialist Valuation Day raised almost £1,000, which will be shared between St Michael’s Hospice and The Multiple Sclerosis Society.
The event was organised by Annabelle Pearson and held at Radway Bridge Garden Centre. Kate Bliss, star of ITV’s Flog IT was on hand during the day to shed light on a wide range of objects. Kate said, ‘It has been a most fascinating day. Just like when filming for TV, you never know quite what you are going discover, and I think many of today’s objects would have made it onto the screen. We have had antique dolls, some by the leading makers of the day and a beautiful Victorian diamond and opal brooch. All these objects had fascinating stories, especially a 2nd, or possibly 1st century Roman brooch. What made it of particular interest is that it is rare to find an object which is so intact and has such elaborate markings. It really shows off the skills of roman jewellers. I’m chuffed to bits to have been part of such a fun day especially as it’s been an opportunity to support two charities that are so close to my heart’.
The owner of the brooch, Julian Morris, aged 44 from Canon Pyon found the historic artefact two weeks ago while using his metal detector in North Herefordshire, ‘It was the first time had been out searching for treasure in ages. I found it in a field about six inches down and I am amazed that it hadn’t been smashed to bits by a plough. It’s a real thrill to find something so unique and I will now register it with the Portable Antiquities Scheme’.
Elizabeth Morawiecka, Partnership Development Manager at St Michael’s Hospice said, ‘St Michael’s is very grateful to Radway Garden Centre, Brightwells, and the experts Kate Bliss, Roger Williams, Geoffrey Crofts and James Pearn for helping to raise money for to St Michael’s. This kind of support from local businesses helps Hereford’s local Hospice provide the best possible paliative care, free of charge for the community’.
Radway Bridge Garden Centre is now planning a Santas grotto to help raise more money for both St Michael’s Hospice and The Multiple Sclerosis Society.
