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Found by two pensioners struggling up a wooded slope from a river - tugged some bushes for support - dislodged some stones - stopped for a rest - noticed a peculiar shaped stone - very smooth for half its length - almost polished - opening out into a flat shape like a blade of an axe (somewhat worn at one side). High polish of conical end indicates that may have been used as hand axe - no wear indicating binding or gripping by insertion in handle. Local stone is granite - appears to be made of granite. Indication is that it is about 5,000 years old - but may be very much older - ice did not reach location in last Ice Age so would not have disturbed location. River was rich source of salmon until 1960s - may have been main or significant food source. Only "mythical" indication of occupation before Celtic period. Usual comments that must have had ritual/religious/status purpose, but wear would indicate more practical functions. Cant help thinking that owner threw it away when he tried out a new fangled bronze axe - or may simply have lost it a couple of thousand years earlier on his way home from the pub.