A magnet fisherman, Stephen Hill, made a remarkable discovery in the River Stour in Dorset when he pulled up a 400-year-old sword, believed to be from the 17th century Civil War era. The 3ft long blade, perfectly intact, was found during Hill’s routine magnet fishing. He suspects it may have belonged to a cavalryman due to its design. Hill, a history enthusiast, estimates the sword’s age and has left it uncleaned for now to preserve its delicate state.

The item has been logged with a local Finds Liaison Officer for examination, and its potential historical significance will be determined. Hill, who regularly documents his finds on his YouTube channel, expressed excitement over this once-in-a-lifetime discovery and hopes the sword will find a place in the Dorset Museum after expert analysis.