A COLLECTION of Anglo-Saxon brooches are being ‘returned’ to Banbury from the British Museum.

Curators at the museum have announced that a collection of jewellery found in Hornton village is being brought back to the area so residents can see the finds.

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The hoard was discovered in the late 19th century on land just west of the church and is believed to have been owned by a woman from the 6th century AD.

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The discovery of the Anglo-Saxon grave was made while a house was being built and the collection was acquired by a French dealer who later sold it to the British Museum where it has resided until now.

Oxford Mail:

The fine pieces of jewellery will be returned to the area on a long-term loan from the British Museum and displayed in Banbury Museum.

The collection includes a large gilded bronze brooch, two identically decorated round brooches, crystal and glass beads and the British Museum has dated the jewellery to the 6th century, between 500 to 550AD.

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Simon Townsend, director of Banbury Museum, said: “We were delighted to work with our friends in the Hornton History Group, to return this beautiful Anglo-Saxon jewellery to North Oxfordshire.

"These treasures illustrate our rich local history and now they will be available for all to see."

Banbury Museum is hosting a night on Saturday, November 16 offering a first look at the brooches.