Metal hunt menaces

The problem has been identified in the three villages covered by Framfield Parish Council Framfield, Blackboys and Palehouse Common.

Clerk Ann Newton said the council had considered making bylaws to prevent metal detecting on recreation grounds but discounted the idea because of the cost.

Mrs Newton said people got very angry about the digging going on especially if it was on a cricket pitch. 'I don't think they would dare go on the wickets which are all fenced off but the outfield is reasonably precious too.'

She was also concerned because the parish council is responsible for safety on the recreation grounds and faces very high public liability in the event of an accident.

'If someone catches a foot in a hole we haven't repaired we could be in trouble. We already know that is the case with mole hills, so we have to get rid of all mole hills,' said Mrs Newton.

She had seen people using metal detectors on Blackboys Recreation Ground on several occasions. They used a special spade to dig out a layer of turf which could later be replaced, but that might not be put back properly.

'The trouble is that once these people get a map of the area there is nothing to stop them coming in unless you have a bylaw,' said Mrs Newton.