BRIBERY, oriental treasures, corrupt politicians, and an illustrious political dynasty: the rich treasure of one of Salisbury’s most notorious former residents was revealed to Dinton’s Historical Society.

Local Historian and Blue Badge Guide David Richards told the spellbinding story of Thomas Pitt’s rapid rise from Blandford St Mary to the Houses of Parliament via India and a flawless diamond.

Pitt acquired the diamond from a local trader while defending Fort St George, in Chennai (formerly Madras), Britain’s first major Indian development, from a siege by the Mogul Emperor. The diamond, which was valued at £100,000, was bought by Pitt for £25,000.

The large flawless 400 carat diamond was cut and sold in fragments, which made Pitt his fortune.

The remaining diamond was eventually sold to French Regent Philippe, Duke of Orelans, for £135,000 in 1717.

The diamond became a crown jewel of France and is still held in the collection at the Louvre, Paris.

Mr Pitt used some of the proceeds to partially fund his acquisition of Old Sarum, one of the country’s most infamous “rotten boroughs” at the time.

As there were only seven voters and three houses in the constituency it was easy for the wealthiest landowner to buy influence.

Mr Pitt’s acquisition started one of the country’s most profitable political dynasties.

His grandson and great-grandson went on to serve as British Prime Minister.

Local history enthusiasts will be able to get their next fix of local knowledge on September 18, when David Dawson will give a talk about Prehistoric Wiltshire.