METAL detector enthusiasts from around the world are hoping to strike gold at a major charity fundraiser.

About 270 people, some from as far away as America, Iraq and Japan, have bought tickets for the event in Bishop Burton at the end of the month.

It was feared the Help For Heroes fundraiser would be scrapped by Natural England as it needed 12 weeks' notice for official checks.

However, the government agency, which is responsible for protecting the environment, has worked around the clock so the event can take place.

Organiser Guy Ellerington, of Bishop Burton, said: "We are very happy this event can go ahead as planned.

"We would like to extend thanks and gratitude to Natural England.

"One lady in particular worked incredibly hard to get the necessary clearance for the event to go ahead."

The rally, which takes place from Friday to Sunday, will play host to a team of archaeological liaison officers.

They will date, log and identify all artefacts unearthed and, where necessary, dispatch them to the relevant authorities for further research.

Other activities at Raikes Farm include live bands, a firework display and an auction of items including an autographed Chelsea football shirt, signed cricket shirts and a signed golf shirt from Rory McIlroy.

Mr Ellerington hopes the weekend will raise £25,000 for the charity, which helps to provide better facilities for wounded British servicemen and women.

He said: "The event has sparked a great deal of interest among detecting enthusiasts given the rich variety of historical and archaeological influence Bishop Burton has felt over the centuries.

"I think part of the appeal is the fact the rallies aren't usually this size. You usually turn up, do the detecting and go home."

Having initially said they were unable to grant the exemptions, Robert Burnett, Natural England's regional land manager, said: "We are working with Mr Ellerington to agree detailed maps and plans for where the metal detecting can take place and where the facilities can be best sited.

"Both the organisers and Natural England are keen to make this happen and our staff have pulled out all the stops in the limited time we have been given.

"We are working hard to make this event a success without compromising the habitat, landscape and historic features that are being supported."

Anyone wanting to attend should turn up at Raikes Farm in Bishop Burton. It costs £60 for the weekend.