Allow metal detecting
Metal detecting is a very popular outdoor oursuit with well over 20,000 participants in the UK. If consideration is being given to relaxing the current restrictions on outdoor pursuits such as golf, angling and bowls, I would ask that metal detecting also be considered.
There are parallels with golf inasmuch as detecting takes place in wide open spaces, mainly on farmland but occasionally on beaches. Like golf, it is commonly pursued as a solo pastime but there are also club outings organised where members spend the day metal detecting on fields. Social distancing on such outings would not be a problem provided members travel to the detecting site individually and maintain the appropriate distance from each other.
Why the contribution is important
Metal detecting is a major outdoor leisure pursuit for many people which provides a sense of purpose, achievement and well being. It is also a good form of basic exercise as it typically involves spending an entitre morning and afternoon walking across fields and it provides an important opportunity for safe social interaction which is currently lacking during the ongoing lockdown period. Many participants are elderly, and this is one of the few pursuits (like golf and bowls) that they can enjoy thereby contributing to their well being, particularly if they are individuals who might depend on such a pursuit to avoid feelings of isolation and/or stress.
by Alastair on May 07, 2020 at 03:56PM
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