A DAD-OF-TWO has revealed some of the 'treasure' he has found since his wife presented him with a metal detector birthday gift.

Martin Merilaht said his most valuable find to date was a George III full gold guinea dated 1777.

The resident of Quarella Street, Cadoxton, said: "It’s the only gold item I have found and is in near excellent condition."

The self-employed plumber said his Minelab CTX3030 machine had proved the perfect present.

“It’s every young boys dream to find buried treasure," he added. "I’m no different. Since my wife and children bought me a metal detector for my last birthday I’ve really spiralled into this amazing hobby. It’s full of surprises buried beneath our feet.

“My best find has been a hammered Groat of Henry VI – a medieval coin, wafer thin, made from silver and minted in London during King Henry’s reign 1422 to 1461.

“I much prefer the Medieval period and have uncovered many hammered silver coins, as well as Roman artefacts and coins, all from the Vale dating up to 1500 to 2000 years.”

“I mostly find trash and rubbish - aluminium cans, foil wrappers, scrap bits of metal, and the dreaded ring-pulls from pop cans.

“The most common 'keeper' I dig up is the 'old penny'. From Queen Victoria, to the Georges’ and Edward, these are a common find, and always a pleasure to unearth.

“My most strange or bizarre find, which was found in Barry, was a live 9mm bullet, most likely from the World War, as it was found close to a 'housing' area for British and American Troops.

“A hoard of gold coins or Viking jewellery would be very welcome.

“It’s not about the value of the item, or how much it can be sold for, but more about the significance of the 'find' and what story it tells.”

For details email martinmerilaht1@yahoo.co.uk