October 5, 1979

TIGHT new controls have been slapped on Redditch's metal detector users in a bid to stop cowboy treasure hunters digging up archaeological sites.

Detector users wanting to explore council sites will now have to have permission from County Hall.

Redditch's priorities committee acted to outlaw the detector cowboys after officers reported that important archaeological sites were being damaged by amateurs.

Permission will only be granted to detector users who hold a Home Office licence - others exploring council sites without authority face legal action.

And, under the new regulations any "treasures" found on council sites must be handed to the county council.