Hambledon Mining has started production at its Sekisovskoye gold project in Kazakhstan.

The first gold pour was on December 26 in the presence of the Akim of the East Kazakhstan oblast and the Akims of the Glubokoye and Sekisovskoye regions as well as representatives of the Government of Kazakhstan.

After a bedding-in period, gold production is expected to be at a rate of 40,000 ounces per year increasing to 100,000 per year when higher grade underground ore is processed. More than 145,000 tonnes of ore grading 1.46 grams/tonne gold have already been stockpiled in readiness for the start-up.

Hambledon chief executive Nick Bridgen says: “Hambledon is now a production company with both the Ognevka treatment plant and the Sekisovskoye gold mine in operation.

“At both sites we have the potential to increase production significantly over the next couple of years. We are 100% equity financed and look forward to strong and rising cash flows.”

www.hambledon-mining.com