'Nighthawkers' in illegal dig at historic Devon site

BBC News

24-05-2025

Police are investigating an incident of illegal metal detecting at the historic Lydford Castle and Saxon Town site in Devon.The unauthorised activity, known as nighthawking, involved the digging of multiple holes at the protected 13th Century site, a scheduled monument managed by English Heritage.The site features a 13th Century tower on a mound, built as a prison which became notorious for harsh punishments, a Norman earthwork castle and Saxon town defencesMark Harrison, head of heritage crime at Historic England, said the offenders were "stealing from all of us and damaging something which is often irreplaceable".
Most metal detectorists followed the law and adhered to codes of practice, he said, warning illegal detecting posed a serious threat to the nation's heritage."Significant progress has been made tackling heritage crime, but there is more that can be done," said Mr Harrison."With the support of government, the hard work of the police, and the help of the community and volunteers, we can help ensure that our heritage is protected and preserved for future generations."Devon and Cornwall Police said: "We were notified following a report of a number of holes recently being dug at the English Heritage site Lydford Castle and Saxon Town without permission."At this time, there are no viable lines of enquiry however if further evidence comes to light the incident can be re-visited."