An ancient figure of Christ has been unearthed in a Lincolnshire field.

The near-complete copper artefact dating from the 13th Century is the first of its kind to be found in the county.

A metal detector enthusiast found the precious object at East Torrington, near Wragby.

The figure would have been mounted on a processional cross used in church services between 1200 and 1300AD, according to Lincolnshire finds liaison officer Adam Daubney.

"It would have been made in Limoges in France around the time of the Third Crusade," he said.

"Similar crosses are well known in France and England but this is a very rare find for Lincolnshire."

The Jesus figure, measuring just 114mm long and 45 mm wide, shows Christ in the crucified position.

Amateur archaeologist and metal detector owner Adge Winstanley (60) from East Barkwith, near Wragby, found the object in a ploughed field.

"I got the signal but I just assumed I'd found a piece of rubbish," he said.

"But when I cleaned it off I could see a face and a crown and I knew it was a crucifix.

"It was a shock to find something so special."

Because the object is made of less than 10 per cent precious metal it is not deemed Treasure Trove and so Mr Winstanley will get to keep it.

It could go on display at The Collection museum in Lincoln in the future.

For more on how the crucifix was found , see Tuesday's Echo