Golden opportunities for those short of brass

Hard-up students could try panning for gold as a source of revenue, if the experiences of a lecturer at Leeds University are anything to go by.

Rob Chapman, a continuing education lecturer, unearthed the biggest gold nugget to be found in Scotland's Leadhills region in the past 60 years, while introducing students to the finer points of practical metallurgy - or prospecting for gold.

Weighing in at 8.1 grammes, the nugget's gold content is worth about Pounds 70, although its auction price would be closer to Pounds 1,000.

Dr Chapman said he has no intention to sell his almond-sized prize. Students on Dr Chapman's annual expeditions to the Leadhills also get to keep what they find, although the current record of 3 grammes translates to an annual salary of Pounds 800.