Since starting this thread I have spoken to a few members of different metal detecting clubs. I must admit I now see them in a much clearer light. First - they all belong to a Federation of Independent Detectorists. This being an insurance body that helps protect livestock, farm land etc shouldany of them be negligent in the pursuit of their hobby. Two - most, if not all members are all 'well read' in their local history and the law that their hobby is bound by. I have been invited out with a local club to see first hand how things work on 'a club rally'. ( that is next week - I will keep you informed Fibula) why did you scatter nails over the field to put metal detectorists off the scent? All metal detectors have what is called a descriminator (or so I'm informed) and they can ignore the metal that the nails are made from, while on the other hand animals can be hurt and damagedby that thoughtless act, either standing on or eating these nails. All metal detectorists remove scrap metal from the land and deposit it in a safe and proper place. Has this thread 'dug up' a whole can of worms, if you pardon the pun. Is there a feeling of being threatend by these detectorists that cause archaeologists to feel the way they do? I dont want world war 3 on my hand between archaeologist and metal detectorists, can you reply Fibula please.

Digger