A RACE against time has begun to find £350,250 to keep one of the largest hoards of Roman coins ever found in Somerset.

The Frome Hoard of 52,503 third Century coins discovered in a pot was this week valued at £320,250, and Somerset County Council’s Taunton-based Heritage Service has until February to find the cash – plus a further £30,000 for the long-term conservation of the coins.

The Art Fund has kick-started the appeal with a £40,250 grant and has promised to match fund public donations up to a total of £10,000.

For details of how to donate to the appeal, click on the Save Frome Hoard link on this story.