A PUBLIC campaign to save a medieval gold ring from being sold on the private market has been successful.

The gem set finger ring was found by metal detectors in Willingale, near Bishops Stortford, and would have been worn by a nobleman between 1200 and 1399bc.

In February Epping Forest District Museum, in Waltham Abbey, started raising £11,500 to buy the ring and a display case, saving the first medieval gem set ring found in the district from being locked away in a private residence.

Councillor Helen Kane, leisure and community services portfolio holder for Epping Forest District Council, said: "I am delighted to advise that our campaign to purchase a medieval gold ring found in the

parish of Willingale, was successful.

"We were successful in securing grants from the ACE/V&A Purchase Grant Fund, SHARE Museums East and the Art Fund and our crowdfunding campaign, the first that the Council has tried, attracted £3,500 from the public, to complete the total needed to secure the purchase of the ring.

"Work will now begin on acquiring the ring, creating the associated displays before the ring will go on display at the museum in the coming months."