Broighter Hoard in Limavady on Tuesday

The Sentinel broke the news of the Broighter Hoard’s return a few months ago, but until now Limavady Borough Council had yet to give official confirmation regarding exact dates for its exhibition in the Borough.

Now, however, the Sentinel can reveal that the amazing golden ornaments - described as the finest example of a form of goldworking originating in La Tene, France ever discovered in Ireland - will be on display from Tuesday, November 12 until Saturday, November 23.

A spokesperson for Limavady Borough Council explained: “The Hoard was ploughed up at Broighter, Limavady in 1896 by two local ploughmen Tom Nicholl and James Morrow. Following a lengthy courtcase in 1903, it was deemed that the gold was Treasure Trove and belonged in the National Museum where it has been on permanent display ever since – until now of course!

“The exhibition in Limavady - with the Hoard taking centre stage - will tell of Limavady’s connections to the gold, both from the archaeological perspective and the family memories that have been preserved with pride and affection for over 100 years.

“Due to the fragility of the little gold boat, regrettably it cannot be part of the loan, however, visitors can view it in the hologram created for the Arts Centre a few years ago.

“A striking willow replica has also been created by Royal Willow Weaver Louise McLean ably assisted by senior pupils from Rossmar School, Limavady.

The exhibition in Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Main Street, Limavady will be open to the public at the following times:

Tuesday 12 November 2013 - 9.30am - 10.30pm

Wednesday 13 November 2013 - 9.30am - 10.00pm

Thursday 14 November 2013 - 9.30am - 5.00pm

Friday 15 November 2013 - 9.30am - 9.00pm

Saturday 16 November 2013 - 10.00am - 5.00pm

Sunday 17 November 2013 - 2.00pm - 5.00pm

Monday 18 November 2013 - 9.30am - 9.00pm

Tuesday 19 November 2013 - 9.30am - 10.30pm

Wednesday 20 November 2013 - 9.30am - 9.00pm

Thursday 21 November 2013 - 9.30am - 9.30pm

Friday 22 November 2013 - 9.30am - 9.00pm

Saturday 23 November 2013 - 10.00am - 10.30pm

The last admission to the exhibition is 30 minutes prior to closure.

During the Broighter Hoard’s stay many additional exhibitions will be taking place at the centre including the Matisse ‘Drawing with Scissors’ Artworks, the Raymond Watson ‘Towards Broighter Exhibition’, the ‘Peace III Plantation Exhibition’, the Willow Boat and treasures of photographs and gold etchings created by local primary school children.

All of this will ensure a lasting legacy for Limavady when the Hoard moves on to Derry-Londonderry for a further display period until Sunday, December 8 2013.”