The core of the code is very simple and is principally aimed at experienced collectors. These collectors are required not to dig in situ in the cliffs and to record specimens of key scientific importance. Should such fossils be for sale, then the collector is obliged to offer them firstly to UK museums for up to six months. This is a long stretch of coast that would be difficult, if not impossible to police effectively. The code promotes cooperation and the establishment of good will and trust, but it also recognises the time and skill invested by the collectors.  It costs money to rescue fossils!

What has been found?

Between 1999 and May 2006, 110 records have been made of which 28 are considered to be of key scientific importance, the remainder being of ‘some scientific importance'. Highlights include two new species of          ichthyosaur (possibly 3), a new species of insect (part of a record of 34 insects) and a superbly preserved skeleton of the Charmouth dinosaur Scelidosaurus.

Image: DSC_0078

Text: Record 99; a possible new species of ichthyosaur discovered in March 2006.

Records are available at the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre web site: www.charmouth.org by following the link to ‘Fossil collecting code'.

LINK www.charmouth.org