Richard Forrest, a dedicated fossil finder, has spent over 50 years searching for evidence of Britain’s prehistoric past on the Jurassic coast in Dorset. Armed with just his eyes and a few tools, Forrest explores the beaches of Lyme Regis and Charmouth, where fossils lie waiting to be discovered.
The Jurassic coast, stretching 95 miles across Devon and Dorset, is famous for its ammonites and other fossils that can be found both in the open and hidden within the cliffs. Forrest describes the thrill of finding something interesting and then uncovering its true significance at home as an amazing feeling.
Many visitors flock to the popular fossil beaches of Lyme Regis and Charmouth to search for these prehistoric treasures, some following in the footsteps of the renowned fossil hunter Mary Anning. However, few possess the expertise and dedication of Forrest, who has become a leading expert on marine reptiles through his fossil hunting adventures.
Forrest’s friend, Chris Moore, is another avid fossil hunter who has made significant discoveries, including an icthyosaurus whose bones are now displayed in the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre. Moore emphasizes the painstaking work required to prepare fossils for display, noting that it can take hours or even thousands of hours to reveal these ancient specimens.
The constant erosion of the coastline due to natural forces exposes new fossils for hunters like Forrest and Moore to discover. While the disappearing landscapes may evoke mixed feelings, the thrill of uncovering new information keeps them coming back to the Jurassic coast time and time again.
The passion and expertise of dedicated fossil hunters like Richard Forrest and Chris Moore shine through as they continue to explore and uncover the secrets of Britain’s Jurassic past. Their stories serve as a reminder of the rich history that lies beneath our feet, waiting to be discovered and preserved for future generations to appreciate.
