Metal Detecting Code of Conduct

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Code of Conduct for Responsible Detector Users

1. Do not trespass. Ask permission to use your metal detector before venturing onto any private land.

2. Respect the country code. Do not leave gates open when crossing fields. Do not damage crops or frighten animals.

3. Do not leave a mess. It is perfectly simple to extract a coin, or other small object, buried a few inches under the ground without digging a large hole. Use a sharpened trowel or knife to cut a neat flap (Do not remove the plug of earth completely from the ground), extract the object, replace the soil and grass carefully. Even you will have difficulty in finding the spot again.

4. Help to keep Britain tidy - and help yourself. Bottle tops, silver paper and tin cans are the last thing you should throw down again. It is possible you will find yourself digging them up again in the future. Do yourself and the metal detector community a favour by taking the junk you find to the nearest litter bin.

5. If you discover any live ammunition or other lethal objects such as an unexploded bomb or mine, do not touch it. Mark the site carefully and report the find to the local police and landowner.

6. Report all unusual, historical finds to the landowner.

7. Familiarise yourself with the law relating to archaeological sites. Remember it is illegal for anyone to use metal detectors on a scheduled ancient monument unless permission has been obtained from the historic buildings and ancient monuments commission. Also acquaint yourself with the practice of treasure trove.

8. Remember that when you are out with your metal detector you are an ambassador for your hobby. Do nothing that may give it a bad name.

9. Never miss an opportunity to show and explain your detector to anyone who asks about it. Be friendly. You could pick up some useful clues to the whereabouts of another site. If you meet another detector user, introduce yourself.

You may learn much about the hobby from each other.

For Information please us on 0844 800 1936