On Sunday 8th September a joint working part from DIGS, DGAG, Wessex OUGS and Bath Geol. Soc. carried out conservation work at Vallis Vale, near Frome in Somerset. The de la Beche Unconformity is an important geological site and is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Unfortunately over the years it has been neglected.

Nettles, brambles and saplings have obscured the geology and damage has been done such as spray graffiti and rubbish left on the site.

A group of 21 spent the day working on the area and the photos help to show the progress made. Further work is needed but a great amount was achieved.

Conservation on a nearby site at Tedbury Camp is planned for 18-20th September. If you are interested in helping please get in touch.

During July several successful conservation sessions have taken place involving members of the DIGS group.

Work has been carried out at the following sites:

Poxwell:

Rockpit Farm (Maiden Newton):

Corfe Castle:

Crack Lane (Langton Matravers):

There was also a visit to Swanworth Quarry as part of the quarry owner (Suttles) liaison programme with the local community:

Further information on these sites can be found in the DIGS sites section of the web site. Click on the link on the picture caption (above) to go to the appropriate page.

On 17 June a small group of DIGS members visited the new exposure at Poxwell and logged the rock sequence from part of the Lower Purbeck sequence. Samples were collected for further study which will include the making of thin sections for microscope analysis. Some of the stone (Cypris Freestone) extracted from the exposure is now being used for architectural conservation work at the Wolfeton Riding House at Charminster, Dorset.