A Bill that aims to ensure treasure finds significant to the story of Mann are reported and preserved has passed its clauses stage in the House of Keys.

The Treasure Bill 2016 will replace the Treasure Trove Act which dates back as far as 1586.

Treasury member Ralph Peake told the Keys: ‘The Treasure Bill 2016 will introduce modern legislation to ensure that discoveries of artefacts of significance to the story of the Isle of Man are reported and preserved, that there is a clear procedure in place for interested parties to follow, and that the finder is treated fairly.’

Under current legislation, only objects made of gold or silver, which have been deliberately buried with the intention of recovery and of which the owner is unknown, can be declared treasure trove. This means ownership is vested in the Lord in Man and the items will be placed in the custody of Manx National Heritage, with compensation paid both to the finder and the landowner.

But this affords no protection to the great majority of archaeological finds, even though they may be of great historical or cultural value.

The Treasure Bill broadens the categories of historic items to be protected and encourages the reporting and protection of discoveries of national significance.

A time limit of 300 years has been introduced to focus on ancient and historic objects and to lessen the possibility of an object having a known owner.

The Bill requires finders of treasure to notify the Manx Museum and National Trust within 14 days or face a fine up to £5,000 or up to 12 months in jail.

John Lewis and Robert Middleton unearthed Viking jewellery and 13th century coins declared treasure trove