Uncovering Whitby’s past: Detectorist seeks landowners interested in hidden history
A Whitby metal-detectorist is inviting landowners to help uncover the town’s hidden history this winter and spring by granting access for respectful, permission-based surveys on fields, allotments and large gardens — even old wells that might suit a supervised magnet-fishing check.
John Fuller, 27, who lives and works in Whitby, has spent recent years uncovering the area’s past and recording finds ranging from gold Victorian trinkets, medieval rings, and even a pilgrim’s token “nearly as old as the abbey itself.”
“For me, the excitement is the discovery and the story behind the objects,” said John.
“Landowners stay in full control and keep anything we find.
"If a unique item meets legal criteria, I report it correctly under the Treasure Act and through the Portable Antiquities Scheme so the history is properly recorded.”
John stresses that all searches are carried out only with written permission, and that he follows a strict leave-no-trace approach: small, neat plugs are replaced so there’s no visible disturbance.
He also notes that protected sites (such as Scheduled Monuments) are off-limits, and that significant discoveries must be recorded with the appropriate authorities.
“With more than 3,000 years of settlement in and around Whitby — from early farmers to Vikings and Victorians — even modest finds can add real detail to our shared story,” he added.
John recently completed an 84-mile walk barefoot along Hadrian Wall to raise money to help give disadvantaged youngsters the chance to get about and about.
Landowners interested in arranging a no-fee survey over the coming months — whether a field, garden, allotment, or an old well suitable for a magnet check can contact John on 07832 840024.