Thousands of people have already booked to see the Staffordshire Hoard in Lichfield.

The folded cross from the Staffordshire Hoard. Pic: Portable Antiquities Scheme
The folded cross from the Staffordshire Hoard. Pic: Portable Antiquities Scheme

The unique collection of Anglo-Saxon gold artefacts, which were dug up in a field in Hammerwich in 2009, will be visiting Lichfield Cathedral, Stafford and Tamworth.

The exhibition in Lichfield from July 30 to August 21 will feature around 40 items, including the folded cross, the biblical inscription and the seahorse.

More than 4,000 tickets have already been snapped up to see the artefacts on tour.

Canon Pete Wilcox, Chancellor of Lichfield Cathedral, said:

“We have been delighted with the overwhelming response to the arrival of the Staffordshire Hoard On Tour this summer and are thrilled that so many people want to experience the Hoard first hand at Lichfield Cathedral.

“I would urge visitors to make sure they have booked their place to see these exquisite pieces of Anglo-Saxon craftsmanship, as well as our own Cathedral treasures.  The message is simple – book early to avoid disappointment!

“As we take our place alongside Shire Hall in Stafford and Tamworth Castle for this very special tour, it is becoming clearer by the day, how very important the Mercian Trail is becoming to the region.”

Tickets for both free timed entry slots and paid tours are now available through the Lichfield Garrick box office on 01543 412121 or online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com.

Full details of the temporary touring exhibition can be found at the newly developed website www.staffordshirehoard.org.uk.

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.