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

Current Rating

Average rating: 4.3
Based on: 6 votes

Comments

  • Posted by Nmunro May 07, 2020 at 16:39

    I agree. Using safe practice to limit risk

  • Posted by Pinksquirl May 07, 2020 at 18:37

    I agree metal detecting should be allowed. The majority of detectorists hold individual insurance, detect in a solo environment WITH personal permission from the landowner of the areas they detect.
    For myself it is my escape time, my physical exercise, and great for my mental wellbeing.
    It is probably THE easiest outdoor activity to allow to resume and most definitely conforms to safe social distancing.

  • Posted by Sibbs May 07, 2020 at 19:10

    It is perfectly feasible for me to go metal detecting without driving anywhere or setting foot on a public highway or footpath and without meeting anyone whatsoever and I'm therefore at a loss to understand how that represents more of a risk to anyone, than going to buy takeaway food or queueing at B & Q to buy DIY gear or garden plants.

  • Posted by Eddie May 07, 2020 at 19:42

    Yes I agree, a hobby that confirms with all the social distancing going, healthy exercise for body and mind, let it happen

  • Posted by Hoaxed May 07, 2020 at 20:18

    I would agree that metal detecting should be allowed, as long as the social distancing is being implemented. It would be so beneficial to many people's mental well being whilst being a low risk for spreading the virus. I dont understand how going to the supermarket that's always packed with people can be ok but out on a field in the middle of nowhere on my own is deemed a risk???

  • Posted by Allison1209 May 07, 2020 at 20:47

    I agree with comments above that metal detecting should be allowed. As long as it's not group digs or rallies. It is very easy to adhere to social distancing while metal detecting, many detectorists go out alone anyway and even if you are with someone else you can't be too close or detectors pick each other up!!
    As long as you are not travelling miles and miles to detect there is no harm in detecting locally. Social distancing and protective measures should be taken. If you have to go through a gate wear protective gloves (not your metal detecting ones). and sanitize your hands as you would before and after carrying out any other activity. I agree with the respondent above that there is much less risk than being in a Takeaway, D.I.Y shop or a supermarket. I do hope we will be able to resume metal detecting very soon. If restrictions on golf etc are to be lifted, there can be no reason not to lift the restrictions on detecting locally.

  • Posted by wilglach May 07, 2020 at 23:13

    Yes I totally agree any non contact outdoor activities or sports should be sanctioned asp.

  • Posted by LesleyS May 08, 2020 at 13:55

    Yes I totally agree with comments above, as Alastair has already highlighted the benefits of metal detecting.

    Great form basic exercise

    Mental health benefits and well being have been clearly proven

    Metal Detecting is mainly a solo hobby , with some clubs also operating in Scotland with metal detecting days conducted mainly in remote areas. Social distancing would not be a problem to control providing members be sensible and travel individually and maintain the appropriate distance from each other. Make sure they wear protective gloves and carry hand sanitiser.

  • Posted by dazraver12 May 08, 2020 at 15:25

    Couldn't agree more with the comments, this hobby is my main source of exercise, I can access local land (some of which have no gates to open and in walking distance) which I have permission to detect, I always contact farmers or land owners prior to attending, I am in complete isolation whilst doing this, its a great mental health factor to me also to be away from it all, ie like fishing etc but the difference is I walk and dig all day constantly getting exercise all day, and as mentioned there are alot of older people who also do this hobby and is probably a much needed health factor to their lives during this prolonged period of indoors stay.
    Darryl French
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