THERE could be gold in them hills after a lucky Norwegian fisherman netted nuggets in the sleepy countryside of south Worcestershire.
Olof Prial was amazed to find sizeable chunks of gleaming gold in a secluded stream flowing down from the Malvern Hills after just one week's prospecting.
He believes he has uncovered a seam that runs from the legendary Welsh gold mines into the heart of the Midlands.
Mr Prial, aged 27, who is currently working as a strawberry picker in Herefordshire, was delighted at his find.
And he believes more treasure lies in the vicinity.
Mr Prial, who hails from Narvik, said: "I couldn't believe my luck. I heard there were was gold in these parts but never in my wildest dreams believed I would find some.
"Now I've found this first nugget, I hope this really pans out for me and I will glean enough gold to be able to return home."
Precious metals expert Prof A Teencarat told the Worcester News it was a fascinating discovery.
He said: "It has long been rumoured that a secret seam lies under the undulating and ancient countryside of Worcestershire.
"This is incredible news and I would be very interested in discussing the matter further with Mr Prial."
The exact location of the find will remain a secret until scientists have checked the gold for its purity. Malvern Hills District Council is currently drawing up plans to divide the area into panning plots.
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