Highland detectorists dig deep to help Lodge Averon in Alness boost earthquake relief fund
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HGIHLAND detectorists have used their passion for uncovering items from years gone by to dig up a cash boost for worthy causes.
They recently raised £446 to be given to the Lodge Averon in Alness fundraiser for sleeping bags and blankets for those who have been affected by the earthquakes in Syria and Turkey.
Before this they raised a remarkable £1100 for Moray Firth's Cash for Kids fundraising drive.
George MacDonald, the founder of the North Detectorists group, said they chose to support the people of Turkey and Syria as “these poor people need every single penny they can get. This money will go towards buying sleeping bags, blankets and other necessities for them”.
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The group sometimes pay a fee to go metal detecting in someone’s land and this gave them the idea to charge their members for a dig which they could then put towards charity.
On onne recent dig they found a number of interesting items including a coin which was a half thistle merk from 1601; a bereavement brooch and a seal matrix, possibly made of gold.
These items will be sent to the information treasure trove in Edinburgh at the National Museum of Scotland as anything that is found which is over 350 years old has to be examined on behalf of the museum.
They also found various coins and shillings and an old watch winder.
George started these digs as he realised what a positive impact this was having on his mental health.
He said: “It’s so good as it stimulates your brain and other members who have had trouble with mental health have said the same with these social gatherings having a tremendous effect on them.
“Meeting people, chatting or just going along with your own machine with your own thoughts. Sometimes it’s better to talk to the strangers you meet on these walks, the conversations can vary, it doesn't have to be about metal detecting all the time, we can help each other.”
If someone is interested in getting involved they can join the North Detectorists Facebook group and ask about their next dig.
The group will arrange for a loan of someone's else equipment for newcomers.
If any land owners are interested in what could be lurking on their land and also want to help a charity dig, then they should also get in touch with the group.
