A METAL detecting group discovered 29 historical coins dating back to the 13th century on a farn.

The Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Metal Detecting Club, which has been running for about 18 months, discovered the haul at a farm in Sawley.

Some of the coins date from Roman Times, the Bronze Age and Medieval era. and included Edward 1 pennies dating back to between 1272 and 1307.

Metal detectorist John Ward was credited with finding the first coin. He was then joined by the rest of the team who unearthed the treasure.

Fellow member Andrew Smith, 46, Henthorn Road, Clitheroe, said: “It’s the fact we discovered 29 in the field that made this so unusual and unique.

“I was shocked because we had been doing it for so long.

“We found one and then another one and another one.

“This kept going on throughout the day.

“It was surreal."

The group had to register their haul with the finds liaison officer at the Museum of Lancashire, who in turn informed the coroner.

An inquest will be held to decide if the coins are of historical importance. If declared treasure, then the British Museum will decide whether they want to take them or not and if they express an interest they will get first choice.

The club’s chairman Jon Ferguson said: “Finding 29 coins in Lancashire is unheard of.

“It was a team effort.

“What we do is like a sport.

“When something gets found everyone musters together.”