The Portable Antiquities Scheme
The Portable Antiquities Scheme aims to ensure that as many objects as possible are voluntarily recorded and the information made available for research, education and enjoyment.
The main aims of the scheme are:-
- To advance knowledge of the history and archaeology of England and Wales by the systematic recording of archaeological objects found by the public.
- To raise awareness amongst the public of the educational value of archaeological finds and facilitate research in them.
- To increase opportunities for active public engagement in archaeology and strengthen links between metal detector users and archaeologists.
- To encourage all those who find archaeological objects to make them available for recording and to promote best practice by finders.
The Scheme in Leicestershire and Rutland
The scheme came to Leicestershire in August 2003 with the appointment of Wendy Scott as Finds Liaison Officer for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Since then she has recorded thousands of objects and dealt with many Treasure cases. See Found in Leicestershire for examples of interesting and rare objects discovered locally. Also see Treasure Finds for object classified as treasure.
Wendy's work includes regularly visiting metal detecting clubs to record finds and to offer advice on their care. She attends metal detecting rallies and holds finds days, as well as taking part in museum events to highlight the work of the scheme, using archaeological objects to inspire.
What happens to the Information?
All the information is added to an on-line database so it is available to all.
Visit www.findsdatabase.org.uk to see what’s been found in your area.
There is also the schemes main website www.finds.org.uk which has useful information about detecting and getting involved in archaeology, as well as useful finds guides and downloadable copies of all our publications.
How do I get my finds to the Finds Liaison Officer?
If you have found any objects that you would like to have recorded, you can leave them at any of the following Museums or you can take them directly to Wendy at Heritage Services HQ in County Hall. Contact her on 0116 305 8325 or e-mail wendy.scott@leics.gov.uk
- Donington Le Heath Manor House, Nr Coalville
- Melton Carnegie Museum, Melton Mowbray
- The Harborough Museum, Market Harborough
- Charnwood Museum, Loughborough
- Jewry Wall Museum, Leicester
- Rutland County Museum, Oakham
Page Last Updated: 13 May 2013
