A 200-year-old sword, found by a five-year-old boy in Ponders End is to go on display in Enfield.

Lukas Saranta-Pasley, of Derby Road, was hunting for treasure in his garden in December 2003, but was unprepared for the find of a light cavalry sword dating from 1796.

The family have been researching the weapon's history, and found the sword is believed to have been the type used by a prison officer.

It was discovered tip-down by the youngster, who asked his father to help him unearth it when he made the discovery.

Lukas' mother, Coral Pasley, said: "It is all a bit of a mystery, especially why it was found point-down.

"We want to dig further down to see what's there. We plan to have a metal-detecting expert come and see us next month."

The family have sought advice on the sword's history from the National Army Museum in Chelsea plus experts from Forty Hall.

The weapon is likely to appear in an exhibition at Forty Hall for National Archaeology Day next month, but an Enfield Council spokeswoman said: "Forty Hall is not in a position to purchase the sword since its local provenance is unknown.

"However, if the family would consider loaning it, Forty Hall would be happy to display it there."

The sword has also been valued by antiques experts at Sotheby's. It was judged to have very little financial value, as it was in poor condition and is corroded.

Lukas, who attends St Andrew's School, hopes to be able to keep the sword at home.