TREASURE was discovered in West Yorkshire twice last year.

Figures from the Ministry of Justice for 2021 show there were two finds reported to West Yorkshire Coroner's Court, which is responsible for holding treasure inquests.

This was up from one the year before – ​and among 14 found in the area since records began in 1995.

Across England and Wales, 908 finds were reported last year – 13 per cent more than the year before, but still below the record 1,061 found in 2019.

The Treasure Act, introduced in 1997, defines treasure as discoveries older than 300 years.

These include coins, prehistoric metallic objects and artefacts that are at least 10 per cent precious metal such as gold or silver.

The MoJ said the number of finds varies greatly across the country, most likely due to "geographical and historical differences" between areas.

The Institute of Detectorists encouraged hobbyists to practice "responsible" metal detecting.

Anyone who discovers something they think is treasure must report their finding to the coroner within two weeks, so the court can hold an inquest to decide who should get to keep it.

Failure to do so can result in an unlimited fine or up to three months in prison.