Jennifer Ritchie was just seven when she discovered the ancient relic in the family garden which bordered Tatton Park.

But it was only when her dad visited an exhibition that he realised he had an exciting piece of history at home.

"When I saw the display I knew I had something very similar to it and when I told staff they seemed very interested," said Layton Cule, Jennifer's dad.

"I just thought it was interesting and I was aware of what it was, but not how old it was."

Jennifer's find is now being studied by experts at the British Museum in London.

The axe head is made of flint and is sharp on one side which would have been used to carve up a kill

Oliver Knapp, an education officer at Tatton Park, said it was unique.

"It is like nothing else found in Cheshire," he said.

"We are not sure where it originates and we are waiting to see just how significant it is."

For 25 years Jennifer had no idea that the weapon could be 12,000 years ago.

If it is, it will be the oldest object ever found around Tatton and the most ancient axe head in Cheshire.

"If the age is confirmed it makes it a very important part of Tatton's history," said Tatton Park manager Brendan Flanagan.

Jennifer has handed her discovery over to Tatton so they can put it on display.

"I grew quite fond of it, but I'm happy it will be on display for Tatton's visitors," she said.

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