WE'VE had an oil rush now Hampshire is preparing for a gold rush.

The discovery of the precious metal was made by chance at an activity centre in the county.

Welly-clad youngsters at the YMCA's Fairthorne Manor in Curdridge near Botley struck gold during an pond dipping activity.

At first it was thought the specks of shiny metal were Iron Pyrites, commonly known as Fools Gold, but tests on the substance revealed it was in fact low grade gold called Lopra Foil.

Hopes of the gold being used to help raise cash for the charity-run centre that offers youngsters a host of activities on the 111-acre site, proved to be a flash in the pan as Lopra Foil is not valuable due to its rough quality.

A fundraising fun run is instead being organised on May 15 to bolster the coffers. Anyone wanting to take part can contact 01489 785228 for an entry form.