A museum will be home to a rare Saxon treasure after a community crowdfunding campaign.

In 2022, a unique Anglo-Saxon gold and garnet pyramidal sword mount was discovered near Stopham in Chichester, dating back to 600-700 AD.

It is the second of its kind to be discovered in West Sussex, with the first acquired by The British Museum in 1981.

Following 166 donations and support through an Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund, the museum raised the £9,000 needed to obtain the “very rare and incredibly important” artefact.

It is believed that the mount would have been attached to a strap to help secure a sword to its scabbard.

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A spokesman for The Novium Museum said: “Each side of the mount is intricately decorated with an almost identical design of gold 'cells' that are set with plate and bar garnets and then mounted over waffle-stamped gold foils.

“The number and complexity of the cells make a beautiful design and add to the historical value.

“With the funds secured, plans will now be made to bring the mount to the museum.

“Once acquired, the piece will undergo conservation before it is displayed on The Novium Museum's first-floor gallery in an area dedicated to Saxon history that is free of charge to visit.”

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Councillor John Cross, cabinet member for culture, sport and place at Chichester District Council, said: “This has been a true community effort, and we are immensely grateful to everyone who supported our campaign to keep this rare treasure in the Chichester District.

"As our first crowdfunding campaign, the public response has been remarkable — not only in monetary donations, but also in terms of the kind messages we received and support from those who have shared our campaign.

“We extend a special thank you to our anonymous donor for their incredible generosity.

"Acquiring the Stopham mount into our collection will be an invaluable resource for our local residents, researchers, and school groups, helping us delve into Saxon history with new depth and understanding.

“It is so exciting to be able to keep this local treasure within the Chichester district and display it for the local and wider community to enjoy."