What were you doing on 2 October 2014?
If you’re like us, you probably don’t remember, but for metal detectorist Darren Carr, this was the start of a brand-new hobby.
That was when the first episode of Detectorists aired on BBC 4. The programme introduced us to Lance and Andy; a bit of an odd couple who found friendship and adventure through metal detecting. By the end of the episode, Darren was on the lookout for a detector and within three weeks was out and about searching the loamy earth.
But, what is the fascination with detecting? We wanted to know more!
As archaeologists, we have had some interactions with detectorists – usually a solitary figure that comes to detect the spoil heaps of an archaeological dig. Darren had been one of those, quietly wandering with his headphones on looking for metallic objects. So, who better to invite along to our podcast studio to answer some of our burning questions.
We asked about his most interesting find – a lead ring – which didn’t sound too exciting until Darren’s reasearch discovered that the unusually shaped object was a decade ring.
This kind of ring, also known as a rosary ring, was used by pilgrims to pray and also as an inconspicuous alternative to the rosary after the dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII.
Darren had reported the ring to the local Finds Liaison Officer (FLO) and, as a result, it was pictured on the Portable Antiquities Schemes website. When the ring was published, it caught the eye of the curator responsible for an upcoming exhibition of regious artefacts in Bishop Auckland. After a chat, Darren decided to donate the ring to the museum.
In recognition of his donation, he was invited along to a very fancy meal with other contributors and VIPs at Auckland Castle.
Thanks to his work and many like him, artefacts that may get overlooked are being added to the archaeological record and put on public display for all to enjoy.
Check out this two-part episode of Tales from the Trowel to find out more and the do’s and don’ts of metal detecting.
If you think you might have a story for us, or are just curious about something you’d like us to look into, email ANNE at podcast[@]pitmatic[.]productions.
To hear part one of our interview with Darren, scan the QR Code link to listen to Tales from the Trowel, or visit talesfromthetrowel.podbean.com.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
