Residents of Ely left shocked by Bronze Age gold theft, compares it to a punch to the stomach

Trustees of the British Museum

### Impact of the Theft
The theft of the Bronze Age gold objects from Ely Museum has deeply affected the local residents, eliciting emotional responses and a sense of personal loss. The stolen torc and bracelet, discovered locally, held significant historical and cultural value for the community.

### Importance of the Stolen Items
The stolen 3,000-year-old gold torc, weighing 730g, was a centerpiece of the museum and considered one of the most significant Bronze Age finds in England. Its uniqueness and pristine condition, due to gold not tarnishing, made it a standout exhibit, providing a “wow factor” to visitors.

### Community Engagement and Hope for Recovery
The curator, Elie Hughes, highlighted the strong community attachment to the stolen items and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase them locally. The museum’s young curators, in response to the city’s 50th anniversary, organized an exhibition showcasing Ely’s rich history and evolution.

### Historical Significance and Future Prospects
The stolen torc, discovered by a metal detectorist in 2015, represents a piece of Ely’s unique history that might have otherwise been housed in a national museum. Despite the theft, there is optimism and a collective hope to recover and reunite the items with the museum for continued public appreciation.

By shedding light on the impact of the theft, the article underscores the cultural and emotional significance of historical artifacts within a local context, emphasizing the community’s connection to its heritage and the value of preserving and sharing such treasures.