A BARROW metal detectorist has described making his most impressive discovery when scouring the fields round Dalton.

Lee Cresswell came across the 1,000-year-old belt buckle, known as a strap end, on November 25.

The British Museum examined the intricate item and deemed it dated back to the 9th or 10th century.

An inquest last month declared the strap end to be treasure and Mr Cresswell and the owners of the land where it was discovered will now decide what to do with their find.

"I've been metal detecting for two years," dad-of-five Mr Cresswell said.

"I have found many items from the Roman, Saxon, Bronze ages, and Viking items, all local finds.

"This strap end is the most unique item of my collection of finds."

Mr Cresswell, 37, explained how he approaches landowners, typically farmers, to seek permission to search their fields.

An agreement is then made whereby the value of any items will be split equally between him and the landowner.

"To gain land owners permission, we phone and speak to the farmer and arrange a meet and greet to introduce ourselves before we get permission to go on their land," he said.

"All of my farmers are quite interested in the history of their land and are interested in the finds I get.

"We have an understanding that anything of value is split 50/50."

During the treasure inquest it was revealed the Dock Museum was interested in buying the strap end which is something Mr Cresswell will now consider.

"I have an understanding the Dock Museum are wanting to acquire the strap end, which would be great.

"I have no idea what this would be worth, it is currently going through valuation."

Mr Cresswell revealed his children follow their dad's hobby, with daughter Brianna assisting in cleaning any finds while son Dale "is forever asking to use my detector and will often be found digging up our garden!"