A taxi driver uncovered three bronze axeheads that are thought to have been buried for around 3,000 years.

Henry Pugh, a metal detector enthusiast, was searching on the Hampson Farms near Rednal, Oswestry.

Mr Pugh and the landowner have both agreed that Shropshire's Museum Service should receive the find.

It is hoped that the hoard, which will be publicly unveiled on Thursday 13 February, will go on display at Whitchurch Heritage Centre in the next few weeks.

They are vital clues to understanding our past Emma-Kate Burns

Shropshire County Council's curator of archaeology, Emma-Kate Burns, said single bronze age axeheads were given to the museum service every few years.

"Hoards like this are far rarer and this is the first to be reported in a long time," she revealed.

"The axeheads are also in extremely good condition considering their age."

Special cases

Archaeologists believe that the objects were either hidden for safe-keeping or left underground as offerings to the gods.

"We really value the chance to see and record finds like this. They are vital clues to understanding our past," added Ms Burns.

"Most finds are photographed and recorded, then returned to their owner. In special cases like this we may ask the owner to consider depositing the items with the museum for others to study and enjoy."