Detectorists prosecuted in Northants

[cardiffian]

 
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-northamptonshire-20799549
 

[ysbytymike]

So nice to see 'officialdom' recognizing the distinction.

  "These are not people enjoying a hobby or professionals carrying out a careful study. They are thieves using metal detectors like a burglar uses a jemmy. [End Quote]

[Mike]

another paltry fine and sentence ,

[hotmill]

At least the article makes it clear that these guys were not your average metal detector Ists, and fair play to English heritage for emphasising that these were not responsible people enjoying a hobby but thieves using metal detectors as tools to steal.

[Val Beechey]

Yes, there was a distinction made between the average, the professional and the thief but if you look beyond what you want to see it is still very damning for everyone.
Just what do you think they would make of any of our 'finds' if our houses were raided. Have to say they wouldn't  make much of mine but I know many of you have made some very nice coin and artifact finds.

Just another nail in the coffin for any credibility we may have as responsible detectorists. Very sad.

Val

[dances with badgers]

ooooh haa haa