Ancient Iron Age battle trumpet discovered

An Iron Age battle trumpet has been discovered in Norfolk.

The ancient musical instrument - called a carnyx - was found buried near other Iron Age items during an archaeological dig.

The animal-headed bronze instruments were used by Celtic tribes across Europe more than 2,000 years ago to inspire their warriors in battle.

This new discovery is one of only three known carnyx in Britain and one of the most complete to be found in Europe, Historic England said.

"Before this dig began our project manager had 'a feeling' that this site would be special." said Mark Hinman, chief executive of Pre-Construct Archaeology.

"We are so impressed with the team responsible for this find," he said.

After their discovery, the items were carefully lifted from the ground in a block of soil from the dig site and were then scanned and carefully removed by conservation experts at Norfolk Museums Service.

As the items are in a very fragile condition, experts say they will need a lot of work to make sure they are strong enough before detailed research can begin.

Where the objects will be kept long-term has not yet been decided, but they will need to be examined by a special coroner first, which will take place early 2026.