Local archaeological reports included medieval coin hoards, a roman lead coffin, and Romano British settlements. So the possibilities were good. The ground was fairly claggy, even though there had been little recent rain. The ploughed field was fairly heavy going but turned up some good finds, so made the effort worthwhile. Finds were slow but steady, they appeared concentrated to the left of the copse, and most people I talked to had found something of interest. The finds display cabinet at the end of the rally showed the full range of finds from the day. Included was a silver Roman coin, and bronze ones, a Roman brooch, a Mediaeval Seal matrix, short and long cross hammered, mediaeval buckles, a Portuguese moider coin weight, buttons of local interest and many other small finds. There were some Georgian coppers that came out in exceptional condition.

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The Farmers choice was a Roman lead steel yard weight, won by Peter from Wyvern. Well done!

The final raffle was then held, many of the quality prizes were won by regional club members, which included a top prize of a T2 detector going to a member of the Chippenham and District club. This made the purchase of the tickets well worthwhile, and of course the Wiltshire Air Ambulance are to receive money from the raffle, a charity worthy of our support, considering the possibility of falling ill in a remote location.

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The first local rally of the year, courtesy of the Chippenham and District club, was well organised, well supported and turned up a range 

of finds for those who attended. Many people commented that they thoroughly enjoyed the day, the landowner was pleased with the event, and very interested in the finds from his land.