The Medieval seal from Stone Priory that was found in a field in Surrey will be staying in the town after campaigners hit the £8,000 target they needed to secure its future in Stone.
The 12th century seal that was discovered by a metal detector in Cobham was named the 17th best historical find in the UK on Britain’s Secret Treasures, a collaboration between ITV and the British Museum earlier this year.
The Stone Historical Society and churches from across the town have now raised the money needed to keep the remarkable object in Stone after a whirlwind of fundraising events over the last few months, including selling wax imprints of the Seal.
Stone Town Council also gave £1,000 to the fund.
Philip Leason, chairman of Stone Historical Society, is thrilled with the fundraising efforts but says a little bit more money is still needed.
Philip said: “I am absolutely delighted that we are able to keep this important part of the heritage of Stone in the town. I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the fund. We have now started on the second phase of fundraising to buy a case in which to display it (the one it is in at the moment is borrowed) and to have a some conservation work done on the seal.”
The Seal has been on display at St Michael’s Church since last December – and it is fantastic news that it will be staying in the town. A huge well done to all the fundraisers and to everyone who has donated.
If you’d like to contribute to the appeal now you can send a cheque, payable to “Seal Appeal”, to Steve Booth, Treasurer, 18 Larchfields, Redwood, Stone ST15 0DD.
