Viking Hoard Allocation – Disappointing for Dumfries and Galloway

The Galloway Viking Hoard (GVH) Campaign has learned that the Queen’s and Lord Treasurer’s Remembrancer is minded to allocate the Viking Galloway Hoard to National Museums Scotland and not to Dumfries and Galloway where it was discovered.

Cathy Agnew, Campaign chair, said: “This treasure was buried in Galloway for safekeeping 1,000 years ago – it is deeply disappointing that the QLTR believes it should be allocated to the National Museum in Edinburgh where it will potentially be lost amongst so many other wonderful artefacts.

“This is a most unfortunate decision for the region and for Scotland. It is doubly disappointing that a more enlightened approach has not been taken, especially as 2017 is Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology.

“The support from the public, from academics, politicians of all parties, and so many others – across Scotland and the world – to keep the hoard in Galloway, where it would be cherished, has been magnificent. It is a real shame their voices and their passion have gone unheeded.

“Dumfries and Galloway Council’s bid was outstanding. It would have saved the hoard for the region and the nation in a superb, specially designed exhibition area at the new Kirkcudbright Gallery – near to where it was found.

“We very much hope that even at this late stage discussions will continue and a fair compromise can be reached.”