NCMD Newsletter No 11_v1 27/11/12 10:07 Page 1

All the latest news from the National Council for Metal Detecting ISSUE 11

NEWS CONTENTS P1-12 NCMD News

P13 How is it decided Meeting with which museum acquires treasure finds?

Sir Bob Russell P14-15 What to do when you find Treasure Myself President John Wells and opportunity to discuss matters Part 3 Vice Chairman Byron Tosh met further with delegates from the with Sir Bob Russell, Liberal Council with a view to seeking an Sir Bob Russell P16-23 Regional News Democrat MP for Colchester, in adjournment debate in the House the Houses of Parliament on 25 of Commons. the House. We agreed that we October to discuss a letter sent by would furnish him with any more Sir Bob Russell to the Council on The NCMD briefed Sir Bob on information as it came to us and 30 July giving details in which what the Council had done so far we would urge our members in seeking allies and making other one his Colchester constituents Mr nationally to supply news and 3 issues for £8.75 Stuart Elton had drawn his countryside users aware of the information from their areas as it attention to the serious matter of consequences of this insidious became available. only by Direct Debit practice continuing. Green Waste getting into the We also made him aware of the Green Waste stream, which he felt We furnished him with copies of BBC’s interest in doing a had ramifications not only to the the President’s Green Waste programme on Green Waste and hobby in particular but to the article, Digging Deep and how efforts to persuade wellbeing of the country side and correspondence from other disgruntled farmers in the the spread of pollution in general. organisations such as Midlands area had led to their Sir Bob went on to say in his letter Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth, non-involvement when mention of that he was keen to pursue DEFRA etc. in order that he may the BBC was made. It was matters at a Parliamentary level have at least 15 minutes of suggested that the reasons for this Call 01778 392036 and would welcome the material to debate on the floor of reluctance was probably two-fold Email: subscriptions@ in that farmers who had warnersgroup.co.uk unknowingly been duped into agreeing to have this rubbish on their land were now too embarrassed to admit it and were possibly afraid that their customers would shy away from taking their produce were it to become widely known. Secondly, and more ominously, it was that farmers and landowners had been paid to spread this on their land and that they too may fall foul of their customers should the facts become known. Sir Bob was also made aware that McCain’s, the potato product people’s company policy was that they would not accept any produce from fields that they knew to be NCMD Newsletter Manager: Trevor Austin Publisher: Editor, Design & Layout: contaminated with Green Waste. I Harry Bain, Searcher Publications Ltd gave Sir Bob copies of subsequent Typesetting, Production and Repro: Tradeset Ltd correspondence with McCain’s in Printed and Distributed by: which I asked for an explanation of Warners Midlands PLC, West Street, their company’s policy on Green Bourne, Lincs, PE10 9PH.

The NCMD officers wish all our members A Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year 1 NCMD Newsletter No 11_v1 27/11/12 10:08 Page 2

Waste. The latest correspondence The National Council applauds long time. It was further suggested opportunity go unanswered and from them reads “Whilst we McCain’s policy on Green Waste that it may be possible for the to let the NCMD be made aware support the principle of recycling and its possible effects on the BBC’s Inside Out team in his area of issues in your regions and to we also share your concerns on environment. being made aware of our and Sir make other members and other the risk associated with some Bob’s concerns. hobbyists aware that this green wastes; McCain sets At the close of the meeting with Sir practice can be reversed if we The NCMD requested that it be rigorous standards which all our Bob the NCMD was asked to write are all committed to its defeat. If kept informed of any crop growers must adhere to and to Stuart Elton to obtain from him you haven’t already done so developments going forward. these forbid the application of bio and his other club members their please sign the E-petition at products not deemed to be normal latest concerns and to glean from At the time of Digging Deep going http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/se farmyard manure, including food them any further information that to press the adjournment debate arch?q=green+waste wastes, process effluents and they may come across that may be ballot had not yet been drawn in Please urge your family, friends composted materials. Any relevant in making the proposed Sir Bob’s favour and this gives the and relatives to sign up to this E- proposed use of other bio wastes adjournment debate more NCMD and its membership a little petition and support your Council would require written consent from pertinent. A request was made to more time and greater opportunity in this important fight to protect the Company and this would only Stuart and his other colleagues to to gather more evidence to the hobby for the future. be granted following satisfactory furnish Sir Bob with anything that reinforce the case to be put before prior assessment of the material strengthens the fight against the Parliament. I therefore urge all of John Wells on a case-by-case basis.” biggest threat to our hobby for a you reading this not to let this President NCMD The War on Contaminated Green Waste A report by Byron Tosh – Chair NCMD Sub Committee on Contaminated Green Waste.

A report on the attendance of the could likely affect the general spread in their areas even though our campaign and introducing the Seminar on Implementing the countryside user and how projects this waste may well have been. Green Waste issue to people who Natural Environment White Paper, bid for by local authority advisers Our effort to inform them of what are involved in feeding local held on 17 October 2012 at vie for government and local is actually being ploughed into our authorities information in support Broadway House in London. government funding from ever food cultivating areas met with of required eco infrastructure To further the NCMD campaign to reducing budgets. Our input time surprise and from our networking improvements. Campaigners of inform the public about was taken up explaining about the time with a number of the other successful projects and Contaminated Green Waste campaign and how we were delegates garnered real interest. government advisers who are in (CGW), John Wells NCMD looking for support. This group Peter Moss OBE of the Shropshire the positions that influence policy President and I requested to attend now has details of what NCMD is, Wildlife Trust was interested to at all levels, now have heard about the above meeting following the who we are, and why we are hear about our campaign and ours. This was just another way to presentation and discussion of the concerned with the subject of agreed to consult with his reach influential people with a Government White Paper at earlier CGW. Partnership members to enquire if vested interest in promoting a NCMD council meetings. The main points of the meeting as this had been reported in their sustainable environment and The paper deals with the set out by the Chair and the four area. Delegates were asked to do therefore relevant. Government’s problem of building speakers was to advise the the same in their spheres of DEFRA a Sustainable Natural Environ- delegates in how to engage with influence. In an earlier letter received from ment over the next 50 years, and lobbyists and fund managers, as Euan Hall, (C. E. The Land Trust), Tim Yeo MP glossed over the proposals to implement this, duly most were in the business of stated that there was a trend in problems and is a standard affecting all of us as countryside bidding for funding for projects cutback in funding the Natural government reply. It offered no users. Also attending were 14 and uptake by local authorities Environment (that’s not earth delegates from Civil Service, local such as for: detailed solution to the problem shattering news!). But following government and consultative and no real hope that Defra will a) Forestation-Woodland Trust on with the interesting remark organisations led by Chair, Huw enforce assured regular stringent Lloyd, former adviser to DEFRA, b) Wetland Conservation-Meres “Eco-Systems if properly managed checks on unscrupulous supported by four speakers, these and Mosses Landscape could add an extra £30 billion individuals, within local councils people having influence in their Partnership Scheme, – value to the economy yearly” was and contracting companies, posts as successful project Shropshire Wildlife Trust. mind boggling! hence our campaign on CGW and leaders. They explained their None of the other delegates In conclusion, our visit was to influence changes where and individual projects, how policies present were aware of CGW being worthwhile in respect of furthering when ever we can.

MEETING DATES GET IN TOUCH The Next NCMD Executive meeting will be on the For membership enquiries For all other enquiries please 17 February 2013 contact the Membership contact the General Secretary: Secretary: John Rigby Trevor Austin The Next Treasure Valuation Meeting will be on the 6 Arkholme Avenue 51 Hilltop Gardens 23 January 2013 Blackpool, Lancs, FY1 6QJ Denaby, Doncaster, DN12 4SA The Next Portable Antiquities Advisory Board Tel: 01253 692313 Tel: 01709 868521 meeting 19 June 2013 [email protected] [email protected]

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The Robin & Karolyn Hatt Memorial Trophy Competition This year’s competition certainly had the ‘wow’ factor, with three hoards, five coins and seven artefacts. These wonderful finds had already won their club and regional heats to find themselves placed in the final judging. Hoard Category Coin Category Other coins in this section were a In the Hoard section, the winner First in the hotly contested section, King John voided short-cross was the Silverdale Hoard, was an Ethelred II Crux type penny found by Tom McCormic consisting of 201 silver items, arm penny, found by the NCMD from the South Lancs Club and a rings, ingots, finger rings, fine wire General Secretary Trevor Austin. Saxon Eadred penny found by braid etc. and a lead container. Trevor belongs to the Conisbrough Chris Goodchild from SHRADS. What a tremendous find for Darren Club, Yorkshire Region, and has Artefact Category Webster of the Lune Valley Club, been working for the NCMD for Taking first place in the Artefact North-West Region. many years. section was a beautiful early © Trustees of the British Museum Bronze Age twisted torque, with a beautiful pale green patina. This and red, remain. This is thought to was completely intact, made of a be Anglo-Saxon, and found by near complete circle of twisted Chris Matthews if the bronze with tapered ends, Warwickshire MDC, Midland approximately 24cms in diameter! Region. The finder was Gary Clifford of the In third place was a gold padlock Wyvern Historical and Detecting ring found by Ron Heaps from the Society, South-West Region. Hoyland Club in Yorkshire.

Second was a William I penny. The lucky finder was Mike Vostrowski, whose club is the Coventry Heritage Detector In second place were three Iron Society, Midland Region. These Age gold coins (one a fragment) of two coins tied for first place with the Corieltavi, AD 30-50. Found the same number of votes, in such by Paul Wilson of the Warwickshire circumstances the deciding vote is MDC Midland Region. cast by Robin and Karolyn Hatt’s daughter and Editor of The Searcher, Harry Bain; This is always a hard and difficult decision to make, as one is deciding between two historically Second place was an interesting valuable and beautiful objects. pendant, made from an Iron Age Also in this section was a large Third was a Witmen type gold silver coin, with three collets silver swagger cane top found by shilling (thrymsa) found by John soldered on to one face to hold Jim Shorrocks from the Bolton Guild from Thanet and Wantsum gemstones, of which two, green MDC in the Southern Region.

The third hoard was a group of Club, a medieval silver fede ring axe-heads. Finders were Lynne found by Stuart Lees from the and Steve Stahl of the South Scottish region, and a medieval Lancs and Cheshire Club, also in the North-West Region. Saxon Eadred Penny

Anglo Saxon shilling (thrymsa)

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cast copper-alloy strap-end found by Trevor Lowdell and Jacq le Breton, with your NCMD Forum providing a lovely medieval swivel found by Mike Worsley.

Another wonderful competition; they seem only to get better. And thinking of the finds I have seen in The Searcher recently, I cannot wait for next year. Hilary Fagen Competition Manager Stewardship without tears An easy guide to ELS, HLS and Metal Detecting

Joe Muggins, an NCMD member. NCMD. You ask the farmer. He Rally Guidance Code which affects NCMD. No it won’t. The I am detecting on Farmer Giles’s should know. And you can look at detecting on rallies on ELS land? I restrictions on detecting on HLS land. He is thinking of putting the a copy of the farmer’s Farm go to the occasional rally and I’ve land are identical to those on ELS farm into ELS. What does this Environment Record (FER) map. heard people mentioning this. land except for two words. This will indicate all involve? NCMD. No, it’s all nonsense. A JM. What words. archaeological sites. Farmer Giles NCMD. It means that he will sign number of archaeological bodies NCMD. ‘Under grassland’. If a can tell you if any are under a legally binding five year contract have drawn up various guidance farm is in ELS you can’t detect on grassland. And you can always with Natural England (part of notes for rallies but they have no known archaeological sites under take a look at them yourself. DEFRA) under which he agrees to official status. There is no mention grassland. If the farm goes into JM. Are there any other manage his farm in a way that of the subject in Natural England’s HLS you can’t detect on any restrictions on detecting? preserves wildlife, ecology and ELS Handbook. Just forget about known archaeological site archaeology. He has to agree to do NCMD. Only that all detecting it. anywhere on the farm. These sites certain things and agree not to do must be carried out according to will be marked on the Farm JM. What about cross- certain other things and in return the latest edition of the Voluntary Environment Plan which all HLS compliance? A couple of blokes in he receives money. Code of Practice for Responsible agreement holders keep. my club said that this could be JM. Does this involve all 50 fields Metal Detecting which under the used to prevent detecting on ELS JM. That’s easy. If there are 5 on his farm? ELS/HLS agreements has been archaeological sites on my farm of changed to operate as a farms. NCMD. ELS is a ‘whole-farm’ which 2 are under grassland then mandatory Code meaning that all NCMD. Cross compliance has got scheme so in most cases and for if the farm goes into ELS I can still finds must be recorded with the nothing to do with metal the sake of simplicity it’s best to detect on the other 3. But if the PAS. The Handbooks state that detecting. All farms, whether in assume that all 50 fields would be farm goes into HLS then I can’t ALL FINDS are to be reported ELS or not have to obey a number under ELS agreement. search any of the five sites. suggesting that pre-selection of of laws about heath and safety JM. Are there any areas where item you think the FLO would only NCMD. That’s it. But it’s important and animal welfare. Cross to understand that HLS, unlike metal detecting will not be want to see and record is not compliance means that farmers in permitted on an ELS farm? allowed under the terms of the ELS is not a whole farm scheme. ELS are deemed to be in breach of If only three or four of the 50 fields NCMD. Yes, on known legal agreement the landowner their agreement if they break these are under an HLS agreement then archaeological sites under has signed. This will include the laws. So forget about it. for detecting purposes the whole grassland. Other than that there modern items as well as partifacts JM. So that’s it? The only farm is treated as if it is in HLS. are no other areas in which and of course the scrap. restrictions on detecting on ELS This is an area that many people detecting is specifically not JM. No problem. I record my finds farms are that you can’t search find confusing. And it’s a good permitted. And don’t forget that anyway. Giles insists on it. grassed over archaeological sites idea to be rather wary of any fields detecting on Scheduled Ancient NCMD. And if the landowner and you have to show your finds under a specific HLS agreement; Monuments and Sites of Special wants to hold a rally on his land to the FLO. some of the land could be Scientific Interest is not allowed he has to provide Natural England scheduled or there could be some NCMD. Yes. Piece of cake, isn’t it. whether the land is in ELS or not. with 12 weeks notice. other problem. It is not easy for JM. That’s easy to understand. JM. No problem again. I can’t see JM. Hang on, Giles told me there’s farmers to get HLS agreements. But how do I know whether there Farmer Giles having anything to a chance he could go into HLS. There has to be a good reason for are any of these archaeological do with rallies. But while we are That’ll make things very hard, Natural England to allow a farm sites on Farmer Giles’s land? on the subject isn’t there some won’t it? into HLS. And remember that all

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finds must again be recorded with that Natural England are happy detect anywhere except an contracts between the farmer and the PAS. with those articles and that both archaeological site under grass but Natural England. It’s their JM. Thanks, I now understand the the PAS and English Heritage use he gets an HLS agreement on just opinions which count. The NCMD basic restrictions regarding them as a guide to detecting on a few fields then any can only advise on the contents of detecting on ELS and HLS land. ELS and HLS land! Copies of both archaeological site on the farm is the handbooks as we interpret I’m going to take another look up articles are also with the National off limits. them. But we are in constant dialogue with Natural England. So the articles on ELS in “Digging Farmer’s Union. NCMD. A word of warning. if you have any other problems Deep” Issue 8 and on HLS in JM. Well I’m off to see Farmer Natural England have told us that with ELS, HLS or anything else, ‘Digging Deep’ Issue 9. I must Giles. I’ll check as to whether the ELS and HLS Handbooks are contact us. confess I found them rather there any archaeological sites on sometimes very precise but at complex at the time. his land. I’ll tell him that if he goes other times a little ambiguous. Roger Mintey NCMD. You’ll be pleased to know into ELS then I can basically And remember ELS and HLS are Message from Hampshire Countrywatch Officers from the Hampshire Constabulary Country watch teams are active in dealing with all aspects of Heritage Crime, and are keen to point out the effects that illegal detecting can have, not just on the historic environment but also on those who are investigated. We have arrested people that were We have no objection at all to landowner to mark on a map want to know about it. suspected of detecting illegally, people carrying out their hobby, where exactly you can go. This Many thanks and would ask that anyone who is but would ask that you get should avoid any need to spend a Jon Radcliffe, P.C 24208 night in the cells. considering detecting illegally, to permission for the land you want Countrywatch Officer think of the following points. to detect on. There is a I'd encourage all those legal Petersfield Police Station You could end up in a Police cell misconception that you can detect detectorists to consider the actions Tel: 0845 045 4545 ext 775 112 for some time, your equipment, on a Public Highway without of those who act illegally. Their Mobile: 07901 102255 finds, and vehicles could be permission. This is not the case. actions reflect on all of you and Email: seized, and your house could be You still need permission from the they ruin it for the legitimate [email protected]. searched, with the end result land owner or highways authority. people. police.uk being a court appearance. Is it If you get permission for an area, If you know who is acting illegally, worth it? get it written down, and ask the let your local Police know. We Presentation by Des Dunne Minelab International, a affiliate presentation covering all aspects Russia, as well as the more well- working with small scale mining member of the NCMD, gave a of Minelab’s involvement in known areas in Australia, America communities who search for presentation at the November detecting; ranging from and Europe. nugget gold for a living, and how OGM of the Executive Committee. using Minelab equipment not only countermine detectors to the new It was extremely interesting to hear Des Dunne, Minelab’s Field CTX 3030. increases the amount of gold Application Specialist, who is of Minelab’s involvement and found, but also reduces the many well-known among rally goers and Moreover, as became apparent initiatives in supporting the risks and hazards associated with regular visitors to the Minelab from Des’s presentation, Minelab formation of a metal detecting traditional mining practices. Owners Club website and Forum, have on-going projects all over the federation in Russia and Trevor Austin kept delegates enthralled with his world, including Africa and informative on how they are

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A.R.C.H. Awareness event – Policing the past: Protecting the future John Wells. President, NCMD

As the National Council for Metal elements involving lectures and Detecting’s President I attended discussions:- the ARCH awareness symposium A. Introduction to the Heritage held on 27 September at Crime Programme and the KelhamIsland Museum, Sheffield Memorandum of Understand- which was hosted by English ing for Local Authorities/ Heritage and Chaired by Ian Community Safety Partner- Marshall, Team Manager, ships. Specialist Environmental Services B. The impact of crime and anti- for Cheshire West and Chester social behaviour on the Council, and ex-police inspector historic environment. Mark Harrison who is now working for English Heritage. C. The role of local communities These were to be the main in heritage crime prevention. conductors of this event Each of these lectures was to be throughout the day. However that followed by a table top discussion quickly changed and it became and a question and answer apparent that the more session involving all the attendees. experienced Mark Harrison was It quickly became apparent that going to be conducting most of the the structure of the symposium events that day. was in addition to the symposium These events are aimed at local that I had attended at Bishop authority staff (such as Grossetest University College back archaeological and conservation in December 2011 except for the Others attending were Council room, including the Crown officers), elected members of local addition of the table top exercises employees and a few Prosecution Service. authorities and parish councils, involving large photographs of archaeologists in particular Ian On several occasions during the member organisations of Heritage crime incidents and the Sanderson, Principal Archaeologist, day I brought up the subject of Community Safety Partnerships, requirement as a team to identify West Yorkshire Archaeology Green Waste and left the delegates community groups and voluntary possible heritage crimes and the Advisory Service. Natural England under no doubt that we in the organizations working within the subsequent reporting procedures. was represented by Victoria NCMD considered this as heritage sector and wanting to The make-up of the audience Hunns, the National Senior important as any other Heritage learn more about the Heritage attendees were mostly police Historic Environment Specialist. Crime. To this end Phil Pollard, the Crime Programme and Alliance to officers from local and national Training Delivery Officer, Heritage Reduce Crime against Heritage. An important latecomer to the police authorities and regional meeting was Peter Kelly, the Protection, at English Heritage The day was structured into three English Heritage employees. lawyer for the Crown Prosecution was sent an electronic copy of my Service whose answers to most of article on Green Waste for the questions asked by the circulation to all attendees. He has since confirmed this as being attendees were addressed by Mark done. Harrison. The NCMD’s attendance at this Most attendees were experiencing event was in support of English for the first time a seminar that Heritage’s efforts to bring on board was explicit in addressing the those organisations as yet effects of Heritage crime on their uncommitted and we were there working lives and the efforts being in order to demonstrate a breadth made to counter these effects with of involvement that would induce the aim of getting their various and encourage others to also sign organisations to sign up to the up to the Memorandum of Memorandum of Understanding. Understanding. The NCMD has When an example of which not, does not and will not condone organisations had already signed Heritage crime involving the use of up for ARCH was required Mark metal detectors. This has been would give the NCMD as recognised and applauded by examples of who was already on English Heritage through the board. excellent work undertaken by The table top photographic Mark Harrison and his team. exercises showing examples of For more information on ARCH recent Heritage crimes proved to www.helm.org.uk/server/show/C be useful to most delegates in the onWebDoc.18508

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NCMD and the ARCH Conferences By Roger Mintey

The NCMD has a special interest in In 2012 Mark Harrison’s was not surprising that these two number of listed buildings in that Alliance to Reduce Heritage Crime secondment to English Heritage aspects of ‘Heritage Crime’ were area because an area with lots of (ARCH) because it evolved from the had run its term and he retired from not even mentioned at the London listed buildings will be rather posh Rural Crime Initiative (RCI), which the police to work as EH’s National Conference. and posh people do not commit was set up by NCMD Southern Policing and Crime Advisor Illegal metal detecting is another heritage crime. Region in Kent over 10 years ago (Digging Deep Issue 10). Six large aspect of Heritage Crime. Once Well they do sometimes. The after a meeting between David scale ARCH conferences were again Harrison’s team had done London delegates were shown a Barwell (the former NCMD planned; the first three in their homework. Mark Harrison few pictures of wealthy Cambridge Chairman) and the Chief Constable Manchester, Portsmouth and had attended a few NCMD: educated Charlie Gilmour and his of Kent. The rationale behind the Birmingham. NCMD voted to send Southern meetings and knew that mates swinging from the Cenotaph Rural Crime Initiative was that officers to the second three events: the relationship between NCMD: and defacing a statue of Churchill detectorists pursue their hobby in Steve Critchley (Chairman) would SR and Surrey Archaeologists was on the famous student demo in the countryside and can keep a look attend the Cambridge Conference, at best non-existent. When an anti- 2010. This version of Heritage out for various criminal activities, John Wells (President) would cover detecting opinion was expressed at Crime was roundly denounced by such as fly-tipping, poaching etc. A the Sheffield event and I would the Surrey event Mark was well the London delegates; in particular formal relationship with the Police represent NCMD at the final event prepared and announced that he those from the inner London would enable rural crimes to be in London. saw the NCMD as a nationwide boroughs with mainly working reported more frequently and more Smaller county-based ARCH events neighbourhood-watch group class inhabitants. I doubt whether quickly thus helping to reduce the were also held in 2012 and on 11 strongly opposed to nighthawking Harrison’s men showed these occurrence of such crimes. July I attended one of these at and other forms of illegal detecting. slides to the Cambridge Conference A few years ago Chief Inspector Leatherhead Golf Course, Surrey. NCMD 1 (Harrison) - Surrey for obvious political reasons. Mark Harrison of Kent Police took These smaller ARCH events had Archaeologists 0. Steve Critchley There is no doubt that these events over the running of the RCI. Mark three principal aims: to spread the had attended the large Cambridge are very political and that one can had an archaeological background message about the problems posed symposium in September and the learn as much from what goes on and the emphasis on fighting Rural by Heritage Crime, to persuade any leftward leaning, academic, Lib- during the breaks as from the Crime began to move towards that relevant body (such as the County Dem voting, time team-watching actual talks. I heard and overheard of fighting Heritage Crime. One Arch Soc) to sign up to ARCH and delegates had made him feel “as a good deal of interesting political perceived type of Heritage Crime to persuade the relevant County popular as a fart in a space suit”. tittle-tattle and made a few notes as was, of course, illegal metal Council to sign up to the When I walked into City Hall in to what was said and who was detecting. The NCMD has always Memorandum of Understanding. October I was prepared for a certain talking to who etc. all of which has had a zero tolerance policy towards Having attended the Surrey event it amount of hostility. This has, been passed on to my Lords and illegal detecting, in particular any would be clearly be interesting to however, never bothered me Masters at NCMD. metal detecting which involves see how the large London event because I have never encountered One aspect of Heritage Crime trespassing, detecting on would compare with it. any anti-detecting sentiment which which is universally vilified is that Scheduled Ancient Monuments, or The London Conference was held is based on anything other than of metal theft. Sgt. James Coomber, failing to report Treasure. The on 11 October on the top floor of ignorance and illogical thinking. As from the Met Police explained that NCMD: Southern Region thus City Hall, home of the London it was Harrison’s team never one reason for the extent of this continued to enjoy a cordial Assembly. The main aims were, mentioned metal detecting as it is crime is the lack of regulation of relationship with Chief Inspector once more, to preach the gospel not an issue in London. The only scrap metal dealers. He urged all Harrison, who attended a number regarding Heritage Crime and to opinion I encountered from some of the delegates to support the “Scrap of its meetings. persuade as many as possible of the delegates was that metal Metal Dealers Bill” which has been In 2010 Mark Harrison was the 36 London Boroughs to sign up detecting was “something that a introduced by Richard Ottway MP seconded to English Heritage for to the Memorandum of few oddballs get up to out in the and seeks to repeal the Scrap Metal two years and what had been a Understanding. sticks”. Dealers Act of 1964 and Part 1 of the Vehicles (Crime) Act of 2001 Kent based operation started to go Mark Harrison and his team had There were two aspects of Heritage thus reforming scrap dealing and nationwide. ARCH was launched in clearly done their homework and Crime which featured prominently vehicle dismantling. February 2011 by a London had designed these various at London and which had been Conference attended by senior conferences to reflect the emphasised at Surrey, Sheffield It is difficult for anyone to guess figures from English Heritage, the geographical and political aspects and Cambridge. One was the theft how successful these ARCH Police and the Crown Prosecution of the areas in which they were of metal and the other was damage conferences have been. There is no Service. After a meeting with the held. The first rule of politics is, and to listed buildings, in particular the doubt that some delegates saw NCMD senior officers, Harrison always has been: “Look at the theft of lead from churches. Mike them as a paid day off work, a free attended the November 2011 map”. The map of Surrey indicates Harlow, English Heritage’s lunch and the ability to claim some NCMD meeting, at which the a largely rural area with a distinct Governance and Legal Director, travel expenses while paying little NCMD agreed to sign up to ARCH political colouring of blue. It was made two points regarding these attention to the actual proceedings (Digging Deep Issue 8). not surprising that damage done to two types of offences. The first, There may be more ARCH ARCH highlighted Metal Theft as ancient trackways by off road fairly obvious, was that the amount Conferences next year. English one of the more serious types of vehicles and anti social behaviour of metal theft was proportional to Heritage’s campaign against Heritage Crime and an article by in town centres were highlighted at the price of scrap metal. The Heritage Crime will no doubt British transport Police in Digging the small Surrey event. London, in second, not so obvious, was that continue. The NCMD will as ever, Deep Issue 9 explains how particular inner London, is the amount of damage to listed keep its ear very close to the problematic metal theft has geographically and politically the buildings in a particular area is ground. After all we set the whole become. complete opposite of Surrey and it inversely proportional to the thing up in the first place.

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OBITUARY Bob Whalley Cometh the hour cometh the man

When Bob Whalley came to the discussions that led to the Act NCMD as one of the Western as it is today. Regions representatives he Bob’s scrupulous dealings with immediately struck everyone in the Council’s fiscal affairs meant the room with his candour and that he became the guardian of that great booming Bristolian revenues and expenditures and voice that demanded attention thus the maintenance of the and respect. Here was a man good reputation of an that unknowingly was to play a organisation that he had vital role in an organisation that moulded under his financial needed such a person at that leadership. Whenever Bob critical time. discovered any anomalies, As Chairman I was asked to try however small or large, he and persuade Bob to take on would act and act decisively. Treasurer would have an effect WHRADA meetings became the role of Treasurer at a time There are those around today that that still resonates today. difficult, he was always when the finances of the that felt the full weight of Bob’s Once you had met Bob you available to help newcomers to Council were in need of re- relentless drive to ensure would always remember him. the hobby and was passionate organisation and guidance. honesty and integrity. If Bob in his support and defence for He was a good man: an honest Our walk and talk around the was on your case then you had the hobby. He enjoyed detecting man: a colleague and a friend. hotel during that Sunday better be prepared to keep regularly with his brother until lunchtime convinced me that looking over your shoulder. He We remember him today: We two years ago. mourn his passing: He will be Bob was just what the was relentless in the pursuit of Bob was NCMD Treasurer from sadly missed organisation needed at that those who would seek to harm 1995 to 2003 and in 1995/6 time. the organisation that he cared His work for the NCMD will Bob was part of the team, When Bob accepted the role he for and nurtured, going to always be remembered which took part in the did so on condition that extraordinary lengths to root out Our thoughts and prayers go out discussions at the then everyone without exception was any miscreants. Bob’s to his wife and family at this sad Department for National to behave in the manner set meticulous file keeping from time. Heritage on the introduction of those days, even when read down by our new Treasurer. John Wells the Treasure Act. Bob continued today, are a testament to Bob’s Woe-be-tide anyone who President, NCMD to play a significant role in claimed any expenses without professionalism and drive for NCMD business and was also prior permission or proper honesty. appointed as Co-ordinator receipts. I for one will always remember Robert (Bob) Whalley Policy in 2002. Bob, with his Bob laid the foundations for the that glare and that sigh of It saddens me deeply to report usual enthusiasm and attention healthy state of the present exasperation that I received that Bob Passed away 11 to detail, took on the Council’s financial status. whenever I failed to spot his August this year after a long responsibility, among others request to bring up a salient battle with cancer aged 75. Bob was not only the Council’s within that role, of consultation mentor on matters financial but point that he would be trying to Bob was introduced to detecting with DEFRA on the then also a source of sound make in Council meetings, and by his younger brother David in recently introduced Countryside knowledge and common sense his insistence on protocol the 1980s when he joined Stewardship Scheme. In 2005 on other important issues. If one always being observed by ISCHEM he very quickly Bob took on the role of needed a new angle on a myself when conducting became the Club NCMD Rep. representing the NCMD on the particular issue and a sound meetings as Chairman. along with other roles, positions Portable Antiquities Advisory opinion then Bob was always at It may appear that I have made he held until 3/4 years ago. In Board until his retirement as an hand to give of his experience Bob out to be a fierce and the 80s he joined WHRADA and NCMD delegate on 2006. and expertise. determined man. He was. He was an active member of both It is well recognised that Bob Bob and I liaised constantly by was also a huge man with a clubs for many years. Both played a significant part in both phone and fax in those early huge appetite for life, a quick ISCHEM & WHRADA made Bob policy formulation and NCMD days when the Council’s policy wit and a genial nature coupled a life member for his work with activities during his time as an on the introduction of the with a laugh that could shake the NCMD and the hobby in NCMD Officer and delegate, Treasure Act was being window panes. general. procedures which were put in formulated and Bob was an Bob joined the NCMD at a Four years ago Bob joined place by Bob are still used today important member on the team critical time in its evolution and SHRADS as an ordinary as are many of his excellent that took part in those his time in office spent as member as travelling to papers. To this the NCMD owes

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hobby. His legacy is being enjoyed today by many people who may not even know his name. My personal recollections of Bob are of a big man, with a soft spoken Bristol burr, a twinkle in the eye, a ready sense of humour…and a good friend. He brought a refreshing breath of West Country air to NCMD national meetings, and was always good company. However, Bob also had a passion for getting things right, for reading and analysing the fine detail, for constructing ideas and arguments with incontrovertible facts and figures…and then launching them to best effect. He was an astute tactician, a man who did not suffer fools or dishonesty gladly, someone who earned immense respect both within and outside of the NCMD. Bob, myself, Dennis Jordan and John Wells discuss the Treasure Act in a London Hotel For long periods, during the Some thoughts on the hobby’s troubled years, Bob and passing of Bob Whalley I would confer daily by phone and, together with Trevor, we I’ll leave it to others, who are would search for solutions or still at the heart of the NCMD, to strategies to advance the cause comment on the massive of the NCMD and its members. contribution Bob Whalley made Being ‘on the same to the national body and the wavelength’, it is not surprising hobby during his years in office that our friendship as a trio at the top table…but not before became very strong. saying that the most important part of his contribution was However, following the formal made during a time when acceptance by the establish- detecting was in grave danger of ment of hobby metal detecting being legislated out of existence as a legitimate and valuable and his work, as a member of contributor to our national the NCMD team of that time, heritage, both Bob and I chose helped preserve and promote to step down from the NCMD the hobby for the detector users ramparts. The new political of today. scene demanded that diplomats In the early and mid nineties, were required rather than together with Dennis Jordan, warriors, and we both felt Trevor Austin and a few other somewhat battle weary. As a worthies, Bob was deeply result, in the intervening years, involved in a prolonged series of the trio has kept only infrequent consultations with Government but regular contact, but the and British Museum, leading to friendship has never diminished the new 1996 Treasure Act and and a real sense of achievement Outside Dpt National Heritage 1995 the introduction of the Portable has been felt by us all. Antiquities Scheme. He was I will miss Bob Whalley as a a debt of gratitude for his am proud to have known and always pragmatic enough to talented trusted colleague but, sterling work. called him one of my friends. recognise that the new systems most of all, as a real friend. I Although Bob stepped down He leaves a wife Sheelagh son put in place could never be consider myself, the NCMD, from the NCMD as an active Robert, daughter Lisa and perfect but, using his immense and the hobby as a whole, delegate in 2006, he has grandchildren Rebbeca, Susie, powers of reasoning, Bob fortunate to have had Bob in our always made himself available Hannah, Max and Alex. helped negotiate the very best lives. He will be sorely missed. right up to earlier this year and I Trevor Austin terms that were available to the John Fargher

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PAS Conference Objects and Landscape: Understanding the medieval period through finds recorded by the PAS.

Stevenson Lecture Theatre, backs allowing the intaglios to Bullae had been found in graves. Lattices: Reclassifying Tudor British Museum 22 October touch the wearer’s skin. Some Other bullae had undergone more Purses’. The original Ward Perkins 2012 bore the initials ‘A G L A’, an mundane transformations. One 1940 classification of purses from Brian Pollard (Midland Region) abbreviation for ‘Thou art mighty bulla had been found which had the period between 1450 and and I attended this event on behalf for ever, Oh Lord’ in Hebrew. been clipped to form a 1oz weight. 1605 had split the objects into of the NCMD. We arrived in time Others bore the letters alpha and Other bullae had been pierced to two broad categories depending for registration and a coffee at omega, the first and last letters in form pendants; others had been on their size. Classes A1 to A5 9.30am and then assembled with the Greek alphabet. counterstruck, or flattened on the had covered those with short over 100 others. Amulets also often bore such obverse or even turned into seal frames while classes B1 to B8 described those with longer At 10am Dr. Roger Bland initials. Many of these had matrices. Some had even had frames. welcomed us all and announced apparently been imported from large holes bored in the centre that this was the first in a series of Scandinavia. They were worn by forming spindle whorl weights. The new classification, using over PAS Conferences with a the laity rather than the clergy and Some had been pierced with nails 1000 PAS records of such finds, chronological theme starting with were believed to protect the and others defaced, maybe as a employs many more variables to the medieval period. The first wearer from death. Amulets with religious gesture during the set up broad categories from Type session was chaired by Dr. broken suspension loops were Reformation. Dr. Pestell A to Type J. All these different Michael Lewis (PAS) who most likely casual losses but many emphasised that the vast majority types were distributed fairly even emphasised that the medieval had been found intact near known of the bullae he had described had across England. Few such finds period, which he defined as medieval hospitals, most likely been found by detectorists. had been made in Wales and extending from the Norman deliberately placed on the ground We all then enjoyed a short break none in Scotland. Purses not Conquest to the Reformation, was or buried. enabling us to grab a coffee and falling into any of these categories somewhat of a ‘Cinderella period’ The second speaker was Dr. Tim meet with familiar faces. had been found on the Continent. Nearly all were made from copper in that it only accounted for 15% Pestell (Norwich Castle Museum) After the break we reassembled for of PAS finds. who spoke on ‘Medieval Papal alloy but a small number had the next session, a PAS medley of been made from precious metal. The first speaker was Dr. Eleanor Bullae-more than just a seal’. 5 short papers chaired by Dr. Some carried Latin inscriptions; Standley (Ashmolean Museum Once again the paper was Kevin Leahy of the PAS. one example had been translated Oxford) whose paper was entitled accompanied by some very First to the rostrum was FLO as “Those without money do not ‘The PAS and the Personal helpful photos and illustrations. David Williams (Surrey County spend”. Others bore the Hebrew Possessions and Experience of Bullae were lead discs attached to Council/Reading Borough Council) initials A G L A, which Dr. the Past’. Her main theme was of a Papal Bull (a document) by a whose subject was ‘Letters and Standley had referred to earlier. the re-usage of not only metal piece of string providing the Bull work but also other materials. In with authorisation. Bullae weighed the medieval period old coins were between 35 and 50 grams and so seen as possessing healing many were produced that a ton of properties and were often carried lead was required each year for into battle by soldiers in the same their manufacture. During the way as US troops take coins from medieval period and in the the 1980s into Afghanistan. Gold previous period from the 9th to the ryals and angels had apparently 11th centuries many bullae and been taken aboard the Mary Rose their attached bulls had been for this reason. Coins were often forged. Any apparent forgery had placed in graves in order to pass to be checked by the Pope and his these healing properties to the cardinals. The name of the issuing deceased. Documentary evidence Pope was on the obverse of each revealed that gold coins were bulla. melted down to make rings which Many bullae have been found by were believed to inherit the coins metal detectorists in Dr. Pestell’s mystical qualities. There were 168 area of Norfolk where relation- posy rings on the PAS database, ships between detectorists and many of which had most likely archaeologists are good. Bullae, in been made from ryals and angels. particular those issued in the 12 Dr. Stanley’s paper was and 13th centuries, have often accompanied by an excellent been found on sites of power point presentation of monasteries. photos. Bullae had also been used and Flint arrowheads and Roman reused for other purposes. Like intaglios were also believed to coins they were thought to have possess these healing or protective mystical or talismanic qualities properties and were often and had sometimes been placed incorporated into medieval rings on top of towers to prevent them and pendants, which often had no from being struck by lightening.

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century the familiar Nuremberg only from stratified layer excava- jettons took over. These account tions: detectorists in ploughsoil for 75% of the jettons on the PAS usually only recovered fragments database. The distribution of broken up by repeated ploughing. different types of jettons The second approach had been to throughout the country is proving integrate PAS data and landscape interesting. Recent detector finds features over a time span of 2,500 have included some new types of years (mid-Bronze Age to 11th jetton with designs featuring Century). Metal detecting finds eagles and rampant lions, some had once more proved invaluable with the legend “Love Conquers in recovering evidence for the All” in Latin. manufacture of objects such as Adam Daubney FLO (Lincolnshire dress hooks. Crucibles, off cuts, CC) spoke on ‘From the Humber unfinished objects and pieces of to the Wash: a landscape copper wire had all been found. approach to PAS data for An entire assemblage of part medieval Lincolnshire’. Unlike the finished dress hooks had been of previous papers which had particular interest. examined finds on a national basis Dr. Kevin Leahy (PAS) presented this one concentrated on a paper on ‘Finds in the Lincolnshire which contains all Landscape: Middle Saxon Finds This paper would have been cast complete with pins are thus sorts of landscapes, hills, fenland, and their context’. This paper impossible to follow had it not confusing. It is not clear whether clay vales and saltmarshes. examined two sites, one in East been accompanied by a first rate these were intended to function as Different landscape zones have Yorkshire, the other in Lincolnshire power point presentation which both strap-clasps and buckles or been characterised by Natural looking at finds, site locations and included some illustrations (one of whether they had been made as England and more recently by the finds distributions. One particular a statue) which featured complete strap clasps and later modified, an Historic Landscape Characterisation detecting survey in Yorkshire had purses. These were much deeper idea that fitted in well with Project. The nature of the land- been very slow and painstaking, than most delegates had imagined previous papers. scape in the medieval period finding one significant find every and showed purses being used in Laura Burnett FLO (Somerset CC affected human activity in any six hours! Unbalanced that period for carrying objects Heritage Service) followed with specific area just as the nature of assemblages of non-ferrous finds other than money, such as dead ‘New insights into Cloisonne the landscape in the present without any pottery or iron had pigeons and even a small dog! Brooches’ a paper which again affects methods of recovering any proved interesting. Discoveries of Teresa Gilmore (Birmingham showed the progress made since artifact discarded in the past. skeletons unaccompanied by Museums and Art Gallery) spoke the advent of the PAS. The original Metal detecting is clearly one such grave goods could indicate a on ‘Crowned Faces and Animal classification of these brooches by method. Archaeologists in the past possible execution site. The fact Heads: a study into late medieval Bukton in 1986 was made from have maybe concentrated too that one such site was where four decorative folding strap-clasps’. only 16 examples. Metal detecting much on vertical stratification in parish boundaries had met maybe The crowned faces and animal and recording has resulted in there their excavations. Dividing the corroborated this theory. heads appeared on different types now being 57 examples on the landscape into thin strips can be Similar work in Lincolnshire had of the King’s Head Buckle or Strap PAS database, which have now seen as horizontal stratification, a been ‘messed up’ by a landowner Clasp. There are now 164 of these been divided into four types, new approach. It had been who would not give permission for on the PAS database, which can ‘Sanderson’, ‘Colchester’, ‘Hybrid’ interesting to see how PAS data detecting. How nice to hear that be divided into 6 basic types. The and ‘Other’ with many different had sometimes complemented sentiment expressed so clearly! In Crowned Head type is the reason colours and designs that were and at other times contradicted the long run, however, detector for the generic title ‘Kings Head displayed on the screen. Many of archaeological data. finds, topography, parish Buckle’. Another type is the Mitred the brooches had been imported We then broke for lunch. The boundaries, charters and the Head, which imitated a bishop from Denmark. Some had Conference organisers had Doomsday Book had all helped to rather than a King. These two undergone repairs: one had had a provided a comprehensive list of say something about Middle forms of the buckle were intended silver pin fitted. nearby restaurants but Brian Saxon activity in these two areas. to show loyalty to Crown or Rob Webley FLO (University of Pollard and I decided to use the Anni Byard FLO (Oxfordshire Church. ‘Plain Head’, ‘Head and York) spoke on ‘Casting new light BM’s cafeteria. County Museum Service/ Shoulders’, ‘Zoomorphic’ and on Old Jettons’. The handful of After lunch Dr. John Naylor of PAS University of Oxford) spoke on ‘Geometric Design’ are the other detectorists in the audience were took the chair. The first speaker, ‘Characterising the Medieval forms. Examples of all six types relieved to hear a talk on objects Dr. Letty ten Harkel (Oxford Uni- Landscape of West Hanney a were shown on the screen. They that they actually find rather than versity) spoke on ‘Contextualising small village near Oxford’. Her mainly date from the 14th century dream about. There are over Anglo-Scandinavian Metal first picture showed a large and are mostly found in the south 5,000 jettons on the PAS Detector Finds: approaches and detecting rally with over 1500 and east of the country with a database. They were used as methodologies’. One again the participants, from which 1200 large concentration in East Anglia. reckoning counters, laid out on paper focused on Lincolnshire with finds were recorded in four days. The clasps were cast from dies counting tables like beads on an two different methods had been This had been surprising as the with examples of more than one abacus. Jettons originated in employed: The first involved com- Historic Environment Record for clasp having been made from the England in the early 13th century paring metal dress accessories the area showed very little and the same die. One had been clearly when they were often struck from from 9th-11th century stratified County HER contained only some miscast. coin dies. In the 14th century layers in Lincoln with PAS data Stone Age finds. Aerial The main difference between a these were superseded by French from other parts of the county in photography had revealed strap clasp and a buckle is the jettons bearing French designs order to shed light on emerging nothing. The detector finds absence of a pin in the former. and by Belgian jettons from ‘urban’ identities. Flimsy metal included items from the Iron Age Examples of King’s Head Strap Tournai. In the 16th and 17th objects had been recovered intact and the Roman period. There had

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been a few Saxon finds including GPS will thus provide more cathedral and would buy an recover and report any non the famous Hanney Brooch, a 7th ‘information’ than finds which are ampulla, made of lead with a relief metallic items such as Neolithic Century cloisonné brooch found recorded to the nearest field, farm moulded design, which would be arrowheads and they frequently by detectorist Chris Bayston on a or parish, and could enable filled with holy water or oil. On did just that. Weekend Wanders dig on 19 detecting finds to be linked to return this oil or water would be The principle sentiments September 2009. This discovery other historical records. A purely poured on to a field in order to give expressed by the Conference was had lead to the excavation of a data-based approach views finds the soil a blessing, in the hope of that metal detecting without Saxon grave. Subsequent as ‘objects surrounded by nothing’ obtaining a better harvest. The recording benefited no-one but discussion at the end of the paper and finds assemblages as ‘sites paper concentrated on four that without detecting there could revealed much support for surrounded by nothing’. The destinations, Walsingham Priory be no recording. Metal detecting properly organized detecting integrated landscape approach in Norfolk, Winchester, the Cult of clearly enjoyed considerable rallies. takes the opposite view. Old maps St. Winifrede in Flintshire and support. The reclassifying of many After a much needed tea break we are thus very important. Metal Bodmin Priory in Cornwall. types of object could never have all reassembled for the fourth detecting, fieldwalking, LIDAR Ampullae originating from these taken place without our hobby. session chaired by Prof. Andrew surveys and other techniques places have their own distinct carried out in 5 separate areas in markings: those from Walsingham I could think of only one possible Reynolds (UCL). The first speaker problem with events such as this; was Dr. Andrew Rogerson Norfolk had helped provide some bearing a ‘W’ under a crown. The very useful information about scallop shell design of many that they might provide a very (Historic Environment Service misleading view of what Norfolk C.C.). His subject was what took place there in the ampullae was the emblem of St. medieval period. James of Santiago. Many detectorists actually find. I doubt ‘Buckles, Brooches, Fields and whether any NCMD member will Farms: settlement and land use The last speaker was Martin ampullae found on the Thames dig up a posy ring, a bulla, a in medieval Norfolk’. This paper Locker (UCL) who’s subject was Foreshore were dedicated to couple of purse frames, a Kings provided some interesting food for ‘Landscapes of Devotion: pilgrim Thomas a Becket and had head buckle and a cloisonné thought. Information is much signs in their wider context’ a originated from Canterbury. brooch in an hour’s detecting on more useful than data, argued Dr. paper co-written with Dr. Michael There was enough time for a Farmer Giles’s paddock. Rogerson. Information theory, a Lewis (British Museum) In the question and answer session at branch of mathematics, defines middle ages pilgrimage was the the end. Most of the comments The next PAS Conference, information as “reducing most popular method of displaying were detector friendly. One person examining post-medieval finds will uncertainly”. Data can do the religious devotion and, for the claimed that detectorists record be in October 2013 and will be exact opposite, especially if it is common people it was the only only metallic finds with the PAS. co-organised by the Finds vague or incorrect. Detecting finds form of tourism available. Pilgrims Brian Pollard replied that the Research Group. which are recorded accurately by would travel to an abbey, priory or NCMD encouraged its members to Roger Mintey

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How is it decided which museum acquires treasure finds? Quite a number of finders have asked this question over the years, and more recently from one of our members from Dorset, John Hinchcliffe. Below I have explained the procedure which is applied to all treasure finds. While most believe that finds of images. This report and the images national importance are of the find are circulated by the FLO automatically acquired by the to the museum in whose collecting British Museum; giving little area the find was made. In some chance for county or local counties there is a straightforward museums to acquire the more delineation of museum collecting spectacular items. I thought, areas, but in others these can therefore, it would be a good idea overlap – so for instance Essex has to explain the procedure in some several local museums like Saffron detail. Walden, Epping Forest, Chelmsford who acquire things from ‘their It is important to determine patch’ AND also Colchester and whether or not there is interest in Ipswich Museums Service (CIMS) acquiring a treasure find at the which is able to acquire from earliest opportunity and anywhere in the county. The FLO particularly before the item goes to Staffordshire Hoard would therefore check with both inquest, there is no point holding © British Museum the local museum and CIMS, and an inquest if neither local or of course the British Museum (BM) national museums are interested someone (the relevant curator, would be impossible for the would also have the opportunity to FLO or someone in the treasure in acquiring, and therefore can be treasure team to be aware of all acquire. The treasure team have an team’s office) feels the item disclaimed and returned to the the specialist collections across unwritten rule of ensuring that they deserves consideration from other finder. the country and would not make receive an answer regarding collections. In those instances, it for an efficient system if they had For the purpose of ascertaining interest (whether positive or is generally only the Ashmolean to ascertain from each their museum interest in a find, the negative) from both the local Museum in Oxford and Fitzwilliam potential interest in acquiring a treasure team rely heavily on the museum and BM before the find is Museum in Cambridge which treasure find before it could be help of the Finds Liaison Officer disclaimed. Even then it can take have been willing and able to disclaimed. (FLO) in the region from which the some time for a definitive answer to acquire items from across the item was found, as the situation is be given! country. Norwich Castle Museum In recent years there have been a number of high profile treasure different in every county. Of course Generally speaking, if neither the has also occasionally acquired it also depends on the nature of local museum nor BM wishes to items from other counties in East finds, which although of national the objects found. acquire something, the treasure Anglia. importance have been acquired by All finds of potential treasure team will only go to greater lengths Although it is possible for any their local museum in the area of generate a written report and to seek out interested museums if museum to acquire such finds, it their discovery. The Staffordshire Hoard is a prime example, which Vale of York was acquired jointly by the © British Museum.eps Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery and the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery with help from considerable public donations. The Vale of York Hoard is another recent discovery worthy of pride of place in any national museum; this was purchased by York Museums Trust, the British Museum and public donations, and is exhibited at the Yorkshire Museum. Generally speaking large finds such as the two examples above would not have been acquired by local museums was it not for the generous support of the general public. Thanks to Ian Richardson for clarification of some of the procedures. Trevor Austin

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What to do when you find Treasure Part 3 – Valuing Your Finds

In part two of this series I Committee prior to the meeting. explained how all the relevant On the list each member will be evidence from interested parties allocated about six items that they was brought together ready for the will look at prior to the meeting. valuation, and in part three I will Each member will allocate a value explain what actually happens on for those items based on his or her the day of the valuation and the expertise and any other available procedures that the Treasure evidence. When a ‘starred’ item Valuation Committee (TVC) comes up during the day’s follows. proceedings, the member TVC meetings are held at the responsible for valuing that British Museum (BM), usually in particular find will give his either the Hartwell Room or the valuation and reasons for it, if all Board Room. The meetings are the other committee members held roughly every eight weeks agree with the valuation then and each meeting agenda will proceedings move on to the next contain from 50 to 60 treasure item on the agenda, if not the item cases, although where there are will be viewed and discussed in large or difficult cases, such as the the usual way. This procedure has Staffordshire Hoard fewer cases the potential to speed up the day’s will feature on the agenda. In fact proceedings and enable the TVC when the TVC valued the to concentrate on the more Staffordshire Hoard it was the only difficult cases. item on the agenda and not only All items of treasure will be took the whole of the meeting day, present for viewing by the but also required considerable committee on the day of valuation. study of the object list by the TVC As the committee moves through members at home prior to the the agenda, each find is passed valuation. around the table for examination Before each meeting (usually by each committee member in about a week) the TVC members turn; there may however be are sent a pack that will contain instances where the committee the agenda and all the information have to visit other departments and evidence submitted by within the BM to examine finds. interested parties on all the finds One case in particular, was a that the TVC will value on that day. group of Iron Age ingots which A ‘Starred Items List’ (items that were huge; two of shallow bowl are perceived to be uncontentious) shape, weighing respectively 3 will be sent to each member of the 8544.4g and 8643.3g, 6 /4in One of the Chiseldon Cauldrons © PAS

2011 T906 Typical of item on the starred list

Shalfleet ingots © Isle of Wight Council One of the Chiseldon Cauldrons © PAS

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1 (17cm) and 8 /4in (21cm) It is at this point that the diameter, and two of Committee must reach a hemispherical shape, weighing consensus of opinion on a number 6055.3g and 3681.1g, 5in of points. 1 (12cm) and 5 /2in (14cm) and Firstly, does the TVC have all the would have needed a forklift truck information that it needs to come to bring them to the meeting room. to a fair valuation, if the it The ingots were subsequently considers that it does then it must disclaimed and sold at Bonhams decide, taking all the relevant for £40,800. evidence into consideration, what Similarly the Staffordshire Hoard that value is. It is not uncommon had to be laid out in the Sturge for there to be differing opinion Basement, Dep’t of Prehistory & around the table as to the value of Europe, simply because of the the find, and there will sometimes large quantity of objects and the be considerable discussion among length of time it took to put them members until a consensus is out. finally reached. As a rule all treasure items are If the Committee considers that it viewed by the committee and does not have enough information valuation by photographic to reach what it considers to be a evidence is not normally fair valuation, then it must defer undertaken. However, the the valuation of the find until the Committee has at several points next meeting, or until it has expressed its general willingness received sufficient information. to value items by photograph if This deferment could be for a logistics and safety of the objects number of reasons; perhaps the it made it unwise to bring them to considers the provisional valuation the BM, such a case was the greatly at odds with its own, in Chiseldon Cauldrons (2005 which case it may request another T178) which were too fragile to valuation from a different valuer. transport and during the last five It could be that the TVC needs to years, there have been a few examples where finds were valued ask either the finder or the on photographic evidence simply landowner further questions about because of the delicate, fragile and the circumstances of discovery. Or unstable nature of the find. it could be that something one of However, in those few cases the interested parties has alluded arrangements were usually made to in correspondence needs for either the provisional valuer or further clarification. Whatever the Staffordshire Hoard a member of the TVC to see the reason, the Committee will not considers a fair market value for find was made, where there is find in person prior to the precede with a valuation until it the find. Any abatement will of disagreement between the valuation. I personally visited West feels confident that it has all the course be dependent on individual interested parties as to how the Yorkshire Museum Service to view relevant available information at circumstances. reward should be divided, the TVC hand. the ‘Stanbury Urns’ case (2007 In the absence of any agreement, will need to advise on T388) which were too fragile to be Although treasure finds are valued either written or spoken, between apportionment of the reward. transported to London. in their ‘as found’ condition, in interested parties the reward is Once the Committee has reached Also some assemblages from some cases the committee may usually divided equally between its decision the results will be sent excavations at Streethouse, feel that there is a potential for the the finder and landowner, to the interested parties for Redcar and Cleveland (2005 find to achieve a higher re-sale however, interested parties may agreement or comment. value once the find has either T540, 2006 T473, 2007 T498) well include a tenant farmer or Trevor Austin were also finds that did not come been restored, cleaned or other parties present when the to the BM and were valued on preserved. Obviously any photographs. More recently, some saleroom bidder would also material from an excavation near consider this. Therefore the Another typical Lewes in East Sussex (2008 committee will need to consider starred item T585) was deemed quite fragile. this, taking into account any costs As the find is passed around the that such a process would incur. table for examination, the written In a few cases there has been evidence is considered; this may accusation of wrongdoing on the be in the form of a private part of one or more of the valuation from the finder, interested parties and it will be for landowner or museum, or the committee to decide whether comments submitted by the Finds or not there are grounds for Liaison Officer (FLO) or the expert abatement of the reward and if so, who wrote the report on the find what level of abatement will be for the Coroner’s inquest. The applied. Again, a consensus of all committee will also take into members is required. The consideration the provisional abatement will only be considered valuation acquired from the trade. once it has reached what it

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SCOTLAND REGION Archaeology Conference Report

The 10th annual Edinburgh, crossing. Evidence of a number of the Summer 2008 excavations at of Midlothian showing the inter- Lothians and Borders Archaeology early structures was revealed Cramond Roman fort. This project relationship of the various forts Conference took place at Queen dating from Mesolithic and involved many interested parties and marching camps in the area. Margaret University on 17 Neolithic periods including what and was hugely successful. The final talk was given by Julie November. may possibly be the earliest house East Lothian Council Archaeology Franklin, the acknowledged finds As in previous years, there was a structure in Scotland. Service gave a brief overview of expert at Headland Archaeology. wide range of interesting topics. Bruce Glendinning of CFA community involvement in Julie gave a fascinating account of The short introductory talk was Archaeology gave a fascinating archaeology projects over the last changing vessel use in post- given by John Lawson, Council description of three circular 10 years. medieval Edinburgh based on Archaeologist, City of Edinburgh ditched features resembling Adrian Maldonado of Glasgow excavation finds made in 2008 at Council who described a recent doughnuts...! These were found University delivered a talk Jeffrey Street, located off the Royal search for evidence of a bomb near East Linton, and despite the summarising the latest results Mile. Of particular interest was the dropped in the Grassmarket, obvious explanation that they are from a trial excavation at Ancrum variety of ceramic and glass Edinburgh, by (believe it or not) a burial barrows, they remain in the Scottish Borders, believed to vessels discovered from the zeppelin during a WW1 German something of an enigma as the have been a medieval Bishop’s 1600’s onward which showed air raid on 2 April 1916... The traditional evidence for barrows palace. The site was described as how the introduction of mass- bomb crater was actually located does not stack up under close being ‘under immediate threat produced glass superseded the but sadly, there was no trace of scrutiny. from metal detecting and traditional earlier pottery vessels. shrapnel or other evidence found. cultivation...’ (Oh dear... these Ciara Clarke of AOC archaeology The only disappointment at this The spot is now marked with an described the excavation and detectorists and farmers are such year’s event was the last-minute inscribed stone – something interpretation of the two a nuisance!). To their credit cancellation of an eagerly-awaited unusual to look out for next time magnificent Roman altar stones however, they did show images of talk by Stuart Campbell and you visit the Grassmarket... found in 2010 in Lewisvale Park, a detectorist assisting during the Natasha Ferguson of the Treasure Jo McKenzie of Bradford Musselburgh, close to the dig, and also some of their Trove Unit aimed at illustrating 10 University gave a detailed account important Roman fort site at detecting finds, mainly 18th C years of Treasure Trove finds in of recent excavations at Inveresk. Both altars were sadly items including, unusually, a East Lothian and the Scottish Broxmouth Hillfort near Dunbar. plough-damaged (interesting how 1782 Spanish silver coin. Borders. The Broxmouth finds illustrated we don’t hear archaeologists Wessex Archaeology described a the complexity of regional Iron Age making a fuss about this...only geophysical survey carried out in This conference is an annual life in Southern Scotland, and about metal detectorists!). They 2011 at Kirk Hill, St Abbs Head, event and is highly recommended, importantly, provided the earliest did however show excellent an area tentatively identified as so look out for it in November evidence for iron smelting in the masons’ craftsmanship on their the location of a medieval church, 2013. It’s an interesting day out, country. carved designs, dedicated to the St Abbe’s monastery, mentioned and an opportunity to meet Headland Archaeology gave a talk gods Sol and Mithras respectively. by Bede. archaeologists and other on excavations undertaken along The morning session was rounded Liz Jones, East Lothian Council professionals involved in the proposed access route on the off by a talk from Martin Cook of Archaeology Service presented an safeguarding Scotland’s heritage. Southern side of the new Forth AOC and John Lawson regarding overview of the Roman landscape Alastair Hacket

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SOUTH WALES REGION Murder

On the night of 18 September We quickly became proficient with 2005, 17 year old Ben Bellamy half the team setting up lanes the was savagely attacked, punched others searching. We covered an and kicked unconscious and enormous area during three long drowned on the South Wales days on site, certainly half a mile, Swansea beach in the morning at maybe more. We so badly wanted around 3am. When found the to make an important find, but body was naked and it appears failed miserably. Plenty of rusty that he had been stripped of nails, bits of wire and a few clothing to make it look like a copper coins but nothing relating swimming accident. to the crime, they were just not Cardiff Scan Club had assisted the there. Police in the past and by one of The Police concentrated their these strange but true search on the promenade and did coincidences, I was actually find several Items they were writing to the Police to offer the looking for. The Police showed club's assistance should it ever be their gratitude providing us with Representatives from all the clubs required when the telephone rang. she'd driven out and threw them tea and coffee and a very good attended a Cardiff Scan Club “Hello, this is Inspector Williams over a high hedge identified by packed lunch every day and what meeting where Inspector Williams of the Outside Crime Squad at the being in between two large trees. a friendly lot they were. We felt We marked out the area and gave a short talk on their work and Bridgend Headquarters, can you proud to be involved. help us? We need a team of worked with a will but failed to the value of the publics' detectorists to search a large area A few months later another call find them. Were they ever there? assistance. His experienced team of the beach at Swansea”. from Inspector Williams; “Can you We'll never know. is limited in manpower and in the help us again”? The new area was use of metal detectors. By using The following morning our team of When Inspector Williams first outside Swansea on land adjacent the Scan club to search the large eight arrived at Swansea. The approached us I did mention that to a remote minor country road. areas, he was able to concentrate extensive sandy beach had been there was a Swansea club but he The area to be searched was his team in more sensitive areas cordoned off to the public and we declined, saying they preferred rough ground and heavily profitably. were led to the prime area to be using people from another area as overgrown with bracken, small searched. We were instructed to there was less chance of a I am happy to report that the trees and dense head high search this area starting at the searcher knowing any of the culprits were charged and are bramble. When we arrived the base of the dunes below the accused. serving long prison sentences. The Police were hard at it cutting down promenade and out to sea for 80 This comment gave rise to the South Wales Clubs are united in metres. To make sure our search and removing everything standing. following scheme to assist the their resolve to assist the Police at was thorough we had brought 60 It transpired that a female friend of Police in the future. All the South any time, could this become a bamboo poles and a coil of heavy one of the accused had been Wales clubs, Pembroke, Swansea, Nationwide Objective of all the nylon cord with us. We stretched hiding the items we'd previously RARE, Newport and Cardiff are clubs. It's certainly rewarding and out the cord and placed a pole at searched for, one a heavy silver participants. Each club was asked your assistance could solve a each end with five in between, we chain necklace, a mobile phone to form a team of volunteers. By crime. then moved seven feet and did the plus some other items. She doing this the Police can go Ken Watson same again. claimed that late one dark night directly to any club they choose. Secretary 2002-2011

NORTH WEST REGION Lost Ring

An email was received from Dave I contacted two of our members, Allen from Stockton Heath near Ron Brown and Gary Owens who Warrington, who had contacted volunteered to have a go at Trevor Austin, regarding a gold recovering the ring. Arrangements wedding ring that his sister Sandra were then made with Dave Allen, Jackson had lost in about 2’ of who had reported its loss and water and 6’ out from the bank of subsequently we went looking or a fishing lake whilst waving to her should I say, Ron went looking son. Trevor passed the information and Gary and me stood on the on to Carol Hargreaves the North bank observing with Sandra and West Federation membership her husband Trevor. Ten minutes secretary, who in turn informed later Sandra and the ring were me of his dilemma. reunited, amidst scenes of tears of

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joy, dancing kissing and jumping make Ron a new scoop. up and down. What a great We thanked him and advised feeling! Sandra about putting super glue Dave asked what we wanted as a on her finger. By the time I had reward. Nothing, it was worth a arrived home, an email was king’s ransom to see the waiting thanking us for the £100 happiness on the lady’s face. Dave donation that had been made by then said he would send a Dave on behalf of the South Lancs donation to the Breast Cancer & Cheshire Club. Care in the name of the South A great result and a very happy Lancs Club, having lost his wife to lady! that terrible disease and being a Cliff Passey welder by trade also offered to Chairman

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SOUTHERN REGION NCMD Southern Region detectorists meet with Surrey Historians

Last winter I received a call from Region Colleagues from a club Gwyneth Fookes, a vice-president across the border in Kent. Terry of Surrey’s Bourne Society, who Dullaway, David Hunt, Ken wanted my help in staging a joint Lindridge, Dan Ling, Mark event at which her members could Moncur, Paul Murray, Ron Payne learn something about metal and Les Shilling all agreed to take detecting. I was very keen on the part. David Hunt was my main idea because NCMD: Southern contact; he had done a great job had had no formal contact with back in 2003 by staging the ‘Our any Surrey heritage group since Treasured Past’ metal detecting the demise of the County Liaison exhibition at Croydon, which had Group, SCADLG, in 2005. The been attended by my former club, Bourne Society has 2000 most of the Kent clubs, Surrey and members and is England’s largest Kent Archaeological Societies, a local history society: they also number of Local History Societies have an archaeological group. and Dr. Roger Bland, the Head of Terry Lane, chairman of my club, the PAS. David and his team had East Surrey Research & Recovery also done a great job in staging a Group, was also very keen to get joint exhibition with my club at involved. When Gwyneth told me Reigate Priory in 2006. how many members of the Bourne Fortunately, David was able to put Soc. would be attending I realized me in touch with a farmer at that our club did not have enough Woldingham, who’s farm is close almost 30 years. There was an which we would be allowed to use members to do justice to the to the Bourne Society’s base at excellent meeting room in the for the detecting practice session. proposed event and I decided to Caterham. David had had farmyard that was adjacent to a The date for the event was set for call on some of our Southern permission to search his land for sand filled riding school area, July 4. The weather in the

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preceding week had been wall to Anniversary badges to wear. Copies After about an hour the historians Gwyneth e-mailed me a few days wall rain, and on the day itself of the NCMD’s Code of Conduct had learned the basic principles of later to tell me that the Bourne there were a few showers in the and the Code of Practice, which the discrimination, sensitivity and Society members had found the afternoon, but miraculously the NCMD had signed up to in 2006, pinpointing and we all returned to evening enjoyable and very evening turned out to be fine. were also made available. the barn for refreshments and informative. They now knew what By the time Terry Lane and I The Bourne Soc arrived at another good look at the displays. members of our hobby did, what reached the farm at 7pm David and 7.30pm. I opened the event with At the end of the evening, for a bit they found, the problems they his team had set up some expertly a brief talk on our hobby. Our of fun, Bourne Soc. members were experienced and that metal laid out display cases and had guests examined the displays and asked to estimate the number of detectorists were decent helpful ‘seeded’ the sandy area with then we all went outside and split buttons in a box, all found on one people who enjoyed sharing their different types of metalwork. Terry into small groups each with a farm; this competition was won by finds and the information they and I set up our own displays and detectorist and with a spare Gwyneth who guessed 1521 provide with as many others as information boards and I gave all machine or two. The scenery was when the actual number was possible. the detectorists NCMD 25th excellent and the weather held. 1524 -amazing! Roger Mintey

Commentary on Operation Nightingale Part 2 Barrow Clump – as it happened! Full version and many more pictures available on www.wkdc.co.uk

Lesley and Geoff Burr (WKDC, on the latest project at Barrow soldiers injured both mentally and Ministry of Defence land and the WKAS & LEGISE:NCMD SR) will Clump in Wiltshire. Operation physically, primarily in operations site is once again a scheduled continue to support Operation Nightingale is the code name for in Afghanistan. This is the second ancient monument, a Bronze Age Nightingale over the next six the project to use archaeology to project we have been involved barrow with Anglo-Saxon graves. weeks working as the detectorists assist with the rehabilitation of with and is taking place on This project is a co-operative effort

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between Operation Nightingale, archaeological site. our bedding etc. before returning doing so he noticed what Wessex Archaeology, Leicester Two very large trenches had been to Barrow Clump next weekend - appeared to be the edge of a grave University and Channel Four's started by the JCB and the spoil we got extremely wet in the tent cut. Proceeding down, Steve was 'Time Team'. The site had been heaps were already of a during the gale and pouring rain sure he had a grave cut and with partially archaeologically considerable size! We searched on Saturday night! Lesley, Geoff and Sam removing examined by English Heritage a the spoil heaps on and off during The weekend of 29 June - 2 July and sieving the soil coming out few years ago because of damage the weekend finding the usual saw our third trip to Barrow and finding bits of human bone he to the barrow by badgers and ammunition live and fired, tin Clump. The Saturday weather was was sure he was onto something. several graves had been found cans, silver paper and empty reasonable but it deteriorated Finally, he came down onto a and excavated. However, the ration packs. Geoff also searched towards the afternoon on Sunday pelvis and the leg bones complete damage is continuing, hence the the trenches and marked signals and we had to run for cover on with knee caps, ankle bones and a need for further exploratory work with firstly pegs and then with one occasion which happily bit of a mixture of toe bones as spears and bones have turned yellow spray paint so the coincided with a coffee break! together with a piece of collar up in the soil being produced by archaeologists would know that Monday was sadly really bone and a vertebra probably from the badgers from their setts. there were metal objects at certain miserable and it drizzled all day. another skeleton that had arrived Earlier in June, Lesley and Geoff places in the trench. We were courtesy of the badgers (the grave When we arrived on Friday night had been 'badgered' - this being met up with Phil A., the site preceded on site by Lt. Col. Paul, we discovered that a large amount director from Wessex Archaeology, our metal detecting colleague, the term in use at Barrow of soil had been removed from the Clump!). Steve had revealed half for a weekend's initial detecting who had assisted by locating the two trenches, mainly from the survey of the site to see if any first major metal find in the trench, of a virtually complete skeleton barrow's ring ditch. On Saturday, ('skelly' being the Barrow Clump further objects were to be found in an Anglo-Saxon copper alloy, we set about detecting on the new the badger spoil and other areas of terminology!). decorated, disc brooch which can spoil and Lesley found a Medieval the site before the main operation All the skellies are given names be seen in the photos in its flower shaped mount and a commences. The weather wasn't and Sam decided on Alison, as all uncleaned state. The other metal musket ball. In the pictures you promising but with only a few rain the previous skellies had been item of interest is an iron spear can see the amount of ordnance showers a fairly comprehensive given male names but had turned head that you can see in the that has been recovered from the initial site survey was possible. out to be female, but given the pictures which was found in spoil heap by the detectorists and However, all that was found was a size and length of the leg bones it amongst the badger spoil by Alex, from the trenches by the huge quantity of rubbish mainly was more likely to be renamed one of the soldiers, prior to the dig archaeologists and the riflemen. empty and full army ration packs, commencing. 'Big Al'! On Sunday, Sam tin cans and a variety of live and Happily, the pottery we had continued to supervise Lesley and The grave that was uncovered in empty pieces of ammunition. Even discovered the previous weekend Geoff's efforts in the grave trench the first week (note the 'Coke' can Geoff was caught off guard when was dated as prehistoric and Phil and we dug carefully down until in the photo!) is of a female and digging a signal and a large H. was due to come to the site to Geoff exposed the top of the skull contained no actual grave goods quantity of live ammunition look at all the struck flint found so when we prudently ceased work (although Geoff did get a small tumbled down into a badger hole! far. While mentioning pottery, with to await more experienced hands! iron signal from the skull) but as some consternation from all After Phil A. had cleared some of Geoff actually ran his detector over you can see from the picture it is involved except, of course, Sgt. the cut nettles with a rake it was the grave at this level but sadly quite deep, in a chalk lined grave Diarmaid who was highly possible to see the ground and we there were no metal signals! On cut and it would have been delighted, Roman pottery had noticed a few struck flints. Geoff Monday, Richard took over the impossible for a metal detector to been turning up. Some interesting recovered what could be the rings burial together with Rifleman have located anything from the pieces, including a piece of from an Anglo-Saxon cosmetics Lewis. Richard gradually and very surface. These remains were very Samian which incidentally was set but other than that there were carefully exposed the rest of the carefully lifted while we were on found by Phil A., and some other no items of antiquity found. skull which still had intact nose site. Another grave has been pieces of Black Burnished Ware Although, knowing there is bone and jaw with teeth, although identified, you will notice Geoff in were amongst the finds. For a nothing in the surface soil is two of them had fallen out post- one of the pictures locating a while, it had people suggesting the helpful to the project as they mortem and were found loose in signal in the top of it that turned burials might be Roman, however, intend to use a JCB to remove the the soil, while Lewis continued out to be a cartridge case but it that idea was soon quashed as the working on the legs and pelvic first layers before commencing was quite exciting for a while! archaeological examination of the deposition of Roman pot was in area. area. We were actually to be seen the barrow ditch fill. A lot of information can be carrying out some archaeology on The weekend of the 22-24 June Ten burials had been identified by gathered from the teeth and Geoff Saturday afternoon and Sunday the weekend and a couple of them was able to determine that the saw our first active weekend on towards the top of the barrow in site at Barrow Clump. We arrived had been excavated in Trench 2, person was of some age, had a Trench 2, when everyone else was both of which proved to be prominent lower jaw (male on Friday and spent most of the having their time off and have morning and half the afternoon incomplete and without metal feature), the teeth were worn found probably the first two pieces artefacts, although Sam managed indicating an unrefined diet and erecting our tent in what seemed of pottery - yet to be dated and to us to be a gale! Rifleman Renzo to recover three rather nice amber the individual was likely to have some pot boilers and struck flint. (aka Sav) and Tash came to our beads from under one skeleton. not had very good oral hygiene! The joke was that we were having rescue at the critical time and thus Trench 1, until this time, had Unfortunately, we had to leave some time off from detecting! prevented the tent and us arriving proved hard going with little before the entire skeleton had like a hot air balloon in Salisbury! Barrow Clump had a guest on reward. been uncovered but it did look like The site had been set up the Sunday morning, Phil H. (Time On Saturday afternoon Cpl. Steve it would be virtually complete - the previous weekend with three Team) turned up unexpectedly to (aka Winno) and Sam decided to first one! sleeping tents, a kitchen and take a look at the progress on the investigate an area in Trench 1 Meanwhile, working in Tench 1, adjoining mess hall, a tool tent, a site and we entertained him for a that had been previously identified Rifleman Sav and Tash uncovered row of porta loos, a water bowser while over a cup of coffee in the as containing metal. Steve went at part of what could possibly be a and a generator. There was also a mess tent. it with great gusto and removed Bronze Age crouch burial, an oval tent pitched on the edge of the We are now actively drying out all several buried tin cans but in rather than long grave cut. Most of

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the crouch burial was under the Saturday evening Lesley and Geoff and could peel bananas and take The metal signals turned out, after chalk cap to the mound and so it assisted by John, spent about an corks out of champagne bottles further careful excavation, to be a was likely to be slow progress hour detecting on the spoil heaps without damaging them using the shield boss and two spears. This getting down through the chalk to as there had been two weeks spoil JCB! However, on one occasion grave was adjacent to the first one examine it. added to them and Geoff found a when Geoff wasn't paying with a shield boss discovered in On Monday work started on a lovely Anglo-Saxon button brooch attention he nearly lost his head Trench 1 previously that was still third trench branching out near on the mound adjacent to Trench when the JCB bucket was only being recorded prior to lifting. Trench 2 but nothing had been 3. Lesley also found a Roman coin inches from him and we all had to 'Time Team' decided to bring back found by the time we left the site (Gloria Exercitus 335-337AD) in shout to tell him to look out! the JCB to widen their trench over so we will see what is to be the spoil running along side Andy P. (WKDC & WKAS), feeling the barrow ditch creating more revealed there. Trench 1 which presumably came better had arrived on site spoil. The TT helicopter over flew out of the barrow ditch that had the site taking the usual aerial A final quick detect of Trench 1, in unexpectedly, he had been going been producing some Roman shots. Commodore Peter B. had the barrow ditch, revealed a good to come but had unfortunately pottery. arranged for a portable x-ray signal that we marked. That part slipped a disc in his back the machine to be brought to site and of the ditch was excavated on Sunday: More people started week before! While searching the the radiographers spent all day x- Tuesday, in our absence and the arriving in advance of the filming new spoil from Trench 4 Geoff raying the finds (both current and signal turned out to be coming of 'Time Team' which was recovered a tiny coin (4-5mm from the previous English Heritage from a grave containing an iron happening on Monday, Tuesday diameter) which turned out to be a dig in 2003-4) and we were able shield boss! There are now other and Wednesday. Lesley and Geoff Roman radiate (270-273AD). to view the results on a monitor. signals in the vicinity which could detected the strip of land that was Lesley, Geoff and John took turns turn out to be other burials going to be the 4th (final) and in the Trench 1 barrow ditch, While viewing the results, with our containing grave goods so things 'Time Team' trench. The ground, excavating (archaeologically) what backs to the 'Time Team Incident are definitely looking up in Trench as usual was full of cartridge cases turned out to be a badger run Room' tent, John G. (Time Team 1. A number of other graves, (some still in their machine gun which terminated in a large Geophysics) was, without our mostly in Trench 2, have clipped belts), empty ration packs nesting hole. This, we only found knowledge, attempting to continued to be excavated this and tin cans but it was better not out when John accidentally put photograph our backs as our week and we are told have to have to find these on the spoil his foot through into it when 'Operation Nightingale' polo shirts revealed some rather nice glass heap at a later date! On wandering returning having emptied a and hoodies read 'Detectorist' on and amber beads. around the spoil heaps for a bucket! After a few minutes of the back. We caught him out second time Geoff found an Anglo- hysterical laughter and extracting when we both turned around Running along side Operation Saxon disc brooch in the spoil John who was only slightly before he had had time to click the Nightingale is Operation Florence. right on the top of the heap bruised, embarrassed but shutter and we had to turn back so Operation Florence probably in the machine removed otherwise unhurt and was buried he could complete taking the (http://www.wessexarch.co.uk/pro soil, again next to Trench 3. The up to his knee in the hole, were picture - hope that picture doesn't ject-florence/blog) run by Wessex brooch is very similar to the one we able to continue with the end up anywhere it shouldn't! Archaeology is a lottery funded found by Lt. Col. Paul at the very trowelling! John (WKAS) obtained the last of project involving the local beginning of the dig and was the signatures he wanted in his community in the dig at Barrow Andy P. managed to join a team found on spoil in close proximity and help excavate a complicated 'Time Team' book and decided he Clump. In one of the pictures you and may well be the lost partner of was wet, tired and dirty enough to can see Lesley being interviewed mixture of two skellies in Trench 2. his find! The evening was spent in The day ended with a 'Pub Quiz' in return home to celebrate his for a video being prepared by the company of the 'Time Team' daughter's birthday. some of the young people that will the mess tent conducted by director and staff with a site brief Diarmaid, under red lighting! Wednesday: Geoff was specifically eventually be edited by them and and slide show of the filming plan. appear as a DVD. Helen G. (Time Team), Phil A. and asked to search Trench 4 spoil Monday: The otherwise calm and Andy P. joined Lesley and Geoff to heap while filming was taking Unfortunately, Lesley and Geoff peaceful Barrow Clump was then form a team, John couldn't keep place. Everything was calm until are not available to go to Barrow turned into a film set! Cameras his eyes open so had retired early. Rifleman Michael (aka Laser) Clump for two weeks so it’s sprung up everywhere, directors, The questions were on a variety of strode onto the site dressed as Phil likely that amazing progress will producers, sound men and Time subjects such as Military, Sex and H. (Time Team) in cut off denim have been made the next time Team 'stars'. Moving around the Animals (you can imagine the shorts (very short) and hat with we see it! site became a nightmare trying to questions relating to this topic!), feathers, under which was a mass The week 14 July - Friday 20 July keep your voice down and not get Archaeology, Time Team, Music of grass looking like Phil H.'s hair. saw Lesley and Geoff's final week into shot! Lesley was shocked to and Film etc.! As you might Michael also managed a great at Barrow Clump for this season. find she was being filmed through imagine we didn't do that well imitation of Phil H.'s laugh! The The weather during the week was the trees while detecting on a spoil but still didn't manage to come whole dig fell about laughing and mixed but predominantly wet! heap and tried in vain not to look last, thanks primarily to the rest of the entire scene was captured on Update: The grave count was now too surprised right into the lens of our team! camera! As nothing much was up to 20! The prize excavated find the camera! Tuesday: Lesley, Geoff and John appearing in Trench 4 (Time Team so far being an unusual, rare Late on Monday morning, the 4th continued to excavate the badger trench), a decision was made to drinking bucket complete with Trench was started with the JCB run and alternated this with trips extend Trench 3 to one side to wooden staves and copper alloy removing the top soil from the around the spoil heap with the expose an already partly visible ring bands. The Riflemen had outer part of the barrow right detectors. Lesley detected over a grave for Phil H. to excavate on visited the local brewery and had through to almost the top of the skelly that was only beginning to camera. This created more spoil been involved in producing a new mound, a huge trench! Lesley and appear (only one rib obvious) in which unfortunately only 'Saxon' ale. Geoff both marvelled at the skill of Trench 1 Barrow ditch and was contained further supplies of John (WKAS) slithered his car (the the JCB driver Ian, it was amazing able to confirm the presence of rubbish! access road to the site was to watch! When questioned metal (iron) in two places which This grave, of a woman, was later becoming almost impassable for afterwards about his skill, he enthused the excavators, Kerry, to produce an amazing array of normal cars due to the rain) on to claimed that he had been named Archie and Rifleman Rhys (aka grave goods including a cosmetics site and pitched his tent. On the 'Best JCB driver in the World' M-Link). implement, a bronze and a silver

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ring (with finger bones in situ), riding shotgun, trailing the GPR impressive. Geoff spotted a couple Thursday the tent was dry enough several small possibly Roman machine and grabbed a pint in of chalk bowls a bit like the one he to pack up. Lesley and Geoff beads and many of the larger passing although he did point out found on the spoil heap and these completed striking the pitch and Saxon ones, a small square- that he wasn't driving! Several were referred to as lamps. The then joined a group receiving a headed brooch and another small side shows were taking Saxon display showed a number talk from two ladies from English circular copper alloy object which place, creating a 'Saxon' brooch by of items similar to the finds made Heritage on identifying animal could have been the necklace casting the molten copper alloy on Barrow Clump including the bones and on plants found on catch. into moulds (the kiln was drinking bucket, saucer and Saxon sites. Lesley and Geoff left In the afternoon both Lesley and constructed on site) and a fight button brooches, shield bosses the site about lunch time to Geoff were about to have a tea scene between one of the and spears. journey home. break (hot water in mugs) when Riflemen in full battle dress Returning to site for the afternoon, Lesley and Geoff would like to they were recalled to site to (although his body armour was Lesley continued detecting on the thank Diarmaid for inviting them pretend to be searching the spoil one of the kitchen cutting boards!) spoil heaps and Geoff excavating to Barrow Clump, Richard and heap by Trench 4 again while and a Saxon warrior - not sure in the Barrow ditch in Trench 1 Phil A. for putting up with them on filming took place. Work was what the conclusion of that was which was beginning to yield site, Steve for coping with what continuing in Trench 4 with except it was noisy! The Time many pieces of struck flint and must have been a logistical Riflemen digging out the Barrow Team final scene was filmed in a some mostly animal bone (cow, nightmare and Danny, the chef, ditch and a great heap of chalk torrential downpour of rain and we horse etc.) together with a couple what would we have done without was appearing. While searching all got extremely wet including the of pieces of human bone. After a you? They would also like to thank this new spoil Geoff spotted a Buglers from the Rifles who while, Lesley produced what the Riflemen, the real heroes, for small, obviously worked, chalk played the Last Post. looked not unlike a strap-end from risking their lives for us - keep bowl which turned out to have Thursday: Peace returned to the same spoil heap adjacent to smiling and laughing lads - it was come from the Barrow ditch and Barrow Clump. Lesley and Geoff Trench 3 which might be a joining a real pleasure and a privilege to was therefore of a likely Bronze took the morning off and went to piece found between the rings on get to know you all over the last Age date (quite an important find). look at the exhibits at the Devizes a Saxon drinking vessel. In the five weeks. The 'Saxon' beer arrived on site Museum which included a well evening the gang adjourned to the Lesley Burr and was hit fairly hard in the put together display by one of the local 'Harvester' for a well tasting session, even John G. (TT local detecting clubs (Trowbridge deserved meal and a few drinks. Geophysics) swooped in on his TT MDC). The museum array of finds Friday: The weather was kind to buggy with Rifleman Sav and Tash from Neolithic to Roman was very us and after a dry day on

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BOOK REVIEW THE THREE TILES By Julian Evan-Hart

ISBN: Number 978-1-1897738-44-3 Price £9.99 Greenlight Publishing / Amazon Email: [email protected] Tel 01376 521900 www.thethreetiles.co.uk

Julian Evan-Hart, well known in detecting reading this just as much as I have enjoyed certainly could never have dreamed of its final circles, has taken the plunge into writing a writing it...... In addition I don’t deny that this outcome. Or who knows perhaps he did!! Like novel; here is an outline of the book in his own book is also dedicated to the thousands of many similar discoveries it could all result in a words. people who each day spend their lives to classic struggle between good and evil, if it Well it is finally here and yes I am really excited trudging around the fields and uncovering does then just who will win the day and even and not a little chuffed one might add. clues to our past. Without whom this country`s then will the effects be able to be controlled by subsequent rich and enhanced knowledge of anyone involved? Just what is the outcome? After 35 years of metal detecting and research our heritage would be a very bare boned entity Are there cleverly hidden and disguised clues I`ve actually managed with the help of a great based on fact within this book? If there are, many people to write and have my first ever indeed. These people know full well who they then could you the reader have a chance to be novel published. Its an account of true are and those who know me well enough will involved yourself in this climactic discovery adventure concerning a small Oxfordshire surely know exactly to whom I am referring. that will simply re-write history as we know it village, full of gritty local characters, fate, Brief outline of plot and could affect thousands if not millions of legend, myth and of course a healthy dollop of lives? Perhaps it will indeed be just one truth. It’s a tale mostly about luck and fate but For 2000 years something had been deeply also one of determination that leads to a buried in a large Oxfordshire field? Some might fortunate reader who along with the elements monumental outcome. This outcome argue that it should never have been searched of pure luck and fate will finally contribute and establishes once and for all the factors behind for or indeed disturbed if it was eventually determine the true and factual ending of this an important historical event of prime located. Whilst others say that to discover it remarkable account. If this doesn’t make you importance to British culture and heritage. The would reveal a massive contribution to the want to rush out and buy a metal detector and account starts in the 17th Century takes the knowledge of our country`s heritage. Myth, become one of those who unearth the vital village through World War One with tragic legend or reality what is the truth behind the long lost secrets of our ancient history then effects and then catapults the rural scene into powerful influence of the burial? What was its nothing will. So the best of luck to you all. purpose and why are people even willing to die the 1940`s ferocious overhead aerial combats Author notes that formed The Battle of Britain. It then looks for it? After nearly twenty centuries of rumour it at the archaeological excavation of a shot down has somehow survived right up into the Of course it’s quite difficult to project a German bomber in the year 2018 and then modern period. Research shows that over the recommended reading age range but it can be delves backwards two thousand years to ages it had caused not only death, destruction, noted there is no hard core swearing or sexual explain the incredible findings. If you like greed, fascination and fanaticism, but also content contained within this book. mysteries, with fascinating timeline kindness, remembrance, friendship and Also at this stage one has to be conscious of connections back and forth through history, appreciation along with many other aspects of this first novels performance but I can say that things lost and then found with an outcome Human nature. Why in 1938 was the there are two further future titles in preparation that will make your jaw drop, then I believe possibility of its very existence even drawn to hopefully forming a trilogy. the attention of Adolf Hitler? What dark shadow this book may well be for you. The fascinating Although each book is going to be related and might have fallen over pre-war Britain if the thing here is that any one reader or group of connected to the others they are mainly Nazis had found it for themselves? Right up to readers could well become entangled in the separate storylines and can be read the present day this influence is not waning. plot of this book and go on to actually become accordingly either singly or in any order People have searched for centuries and now if an important part of the story being told here. chosen. The aim of this work is to give hope of success, it was discovered it could also be lost forever. It even when times are tough both luck and fate was a lone metal detectorist who really cracked Finally my thanks go to everyone who has are always unavoidable factors in any the final clues, but even he had no idea just helped bring this work to fruition. happening. So I hope everyone will enjoy what he had become involved with and most JEH

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