Old Richian Andy Frape (1979–1984) and his fellow metal detectorist John Ganley, an Old Cryptian, visited us this week to present an interesting historical find to Headteacher Matthew Lynch. The item was uncovered by John during a recent metal detecting outing and he has kindly donated it to the School. The find is a school uniform button bearing the inscription 'Sir Thomas Rich's Hospital.' Records show the word 'Hospital' was dropped from the school name in 1882, and based on its style and design, the button is likely from between 1820 and 1880. It could prove to be one of our oldest artefacts.

Andy (pictured on the left) and John (centre) are members of a local metal detecting club based in Taynton, near Newent, www.glevumdetecting.com. We are extremely grateful to them for this generous donation and are delighted to add the button to our archives.