A bronze Roman trumpet brooch was the find of the year at a local metal detecting club.

The competition at Preston and District Metal Detecting Club was judged by Lancashire finds officer Dot Bruns.

Ms Bruns said she chose the brooch because of its archaeological significance. "It is the finest example of a Roman trumpet brooch I have seen," she added.

The brooch was uncovered by Albert Pinnington, 70, who has been detecting for more than 30 years.

Albert, a retired joiner from Preston, found it while detecting with mates in Yorkshire.

"It is the best brooch I have ever found, and the biggest, in fact it's the biggest one I have ever seen.

"The last person who wore it was probably some Roman in the first century," he added. "They used to wear them as a cloak fastener."

Also on the table competing for the coveted trophy was a medieval gold ring found on the Fylde, and a medievel purse bar. There were also several Roman artefacts, and coins from various periods including many hammered coins.

Preston and District Metal Detecting Club meets on the third Monday of every month at Fishwick Ramblers Club, Mornington Road, off New Hall Lane, Preston, at 8pm. For details call Mike Wolstencroft on 0790 9942 311.