A homeless man moved on by police for begging in the city centre has had a lucky surprise this afternoon after discovering a rare coin worth hundreds of pounds.

Braving plummeting temperatures appears to have paid off for the gentleman, who was sitting outside Greggs on Exeter's High Street for hours seeking money from strangers.

His efforts may have been worth it after a rare coin was handed into him.

Patrolling officers told the Echo the man was moved on as he was begging which is illegal in the UK.

But the kind officers did say they helped him before he went on his way.

The policeman said the man had been given a 50 pence and wondered if it was one of the special coins launched in memory of children's author Beatrix Potter.

The officer used his phone to help the homeless man check the price of the piece - which turned out to be worth around £400.

In April last year, the Royal Mint produced a series of special edition coins featuring well-loved characters to mark the 150 anniversary of Beatrix Potter.

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Homeless man makes lucky discovery afterfinding rare Beatrix Potter coin (www.exeterexpressandecho.co.uk/homeless-beggar-makes-lucky-discovery-after-finding-rare-beatrix-potter-coin/story-30025224-detail/story.html)