Treasure finders from the Isle of Wight should hold on to their spoils - but only until a new Finds Liaison Officer is appointed.

After years in the role, Frank Basford has retired as the Isle of Wight Finds Liaison Officer for the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS).

The Isle of Wight Council said: "We are grateful for and acknowledge Frank's many years of valuable service.

“We are in the process of appointing a replacement.”

Until a new person is appointed, Islanders are told to hold on to their finds.

Alternatively, if you find treasure, email the Coroner (coroners@iow.gov.uk), copying in the British Museum (treasure@britishmuseum.org).

Contact Michael Lewis, Head of the PAS at the British Museum (mlewis@britishmuseum.org) for all other urgent enquiries.

For other general enquiries, the Isle of Wight Council Archaeology service can be contacted on archaeology@iow.gov.uk.