A TREASURE trove of gold jewellery and precious artefacts with links to the North-East is go on display in the region.

The priceless collection includes rings, badges and pendants dating back to the Middle Ages, all of which were either found in the North-East or belonged to someone who lived in or visited the area.

There is a 15th century gold signet ring believed to have belonged to Henry Percy, who died in battle fighting for Henry VI during the Wars of the Roses; a gold pendant depicting St George slaying a dragon; coins from the reigns of Edward I, Edward IV and Alexander III of Scotland; and a Papal ring of gilded copper alloy and glass, bearing the arms of the family of Pope Paul II.

The items will be part of a wider Banners of the North exhibition exploring life in the North between the 11th and 15th centuries and the importance of saints such as Cuthbert and George which opens at Bede’s World, Jarrow, on Saturday, July 19, and runs until Sunday, September 28.

Bede’s World director Mike Benson said: “Throughout the Middle Ages the North-East was at the heart of cultural and religious life.

“The exhibition will really give an indication of the way in which people here lived and the challenges they faced.”

The exhibition opening will be marked by a Folk Festival from July 18 to 20, which will begin with a procession of local miners’ banners.

Throughout the summer there will also be talks, workshops and family activities.

Meanwhile, the Codex Amiatinus, the world’s only full-size replica of a Bible created by the Venerable Bede, remains on display; the earliest surviving copy of the 12th century Boldon Book will be on show at South Shields Museum and Art Gallery from Thursday, July 17; and Roman treasures including the 2nd century Shield Boss will be at Arbeia Roman Fort, South Shields.

Fay Cunningham, Mayor of South Tyneside, said: “Seeing treasures such as these in the area which inspired them is truly awe-inspiring and makes you very proud indeed to have such a rich and diverse heritage.”

For full details, visit bedesworld.co.uk or twmuseums.org.uk