A SHAFTESBURY area “full of history” has fallen victim to an alleged heritage crime, described as “illegal” and “a reckless act” by town councillors.

Otherwise known as ‘nighthawking’, Dorset Police officers have been investigating the grounds of Castle Hill following reports of metal detectorists digging without permission in the area.

A hub of nature, wildlife and history, Castle Hill is listed as a scheduled monument by Historic England and is owned by Shaftesbury Town Council.

In response to the reports, Shaftesbury Town Councillor Andy Hollingshead said: “This was a reckless act, which had the potential to endanger this area.”

In an appeal posted on Facebook Dorset Police said: “As you know Dorset is full of history, however you cannot just dig it up.

“[There has been a] report of heritage crime in Shaftesbury with metal detectorists digging up areas of Castle Hill.

“Often termed nighthawking - permission is required from landowners or, in case of scheduled monuments, the secretary of state for culture.

“Finds need to be declared, breaches can result in fines [or] prison.”

Dorset Police told the Journal that it was not yet known whether anything was removed from the grounds, after holes were found.

No arrests have yet been made.

Cllr Hollingshead added: “Under the Ancient Monuments [and Archaeological Areas] Act, it is illegal for acts of this kind to operate in this area.

“I fully support Dorset Police in its mission to stamp out such careless and anti-social behaviour.”

Following the police appeal Dorset councillor for Shaftesbury Derek Beer said: “People should respect the town’s history, there is a time and place for digging.

“A lot of the area is part of the Shaftesbury Abbey complex so it’s just full of history that shouldn’t be tampered with.”

Cllr Beer added: “There are special conditions for when grounds can be dug up, for the uncovering of real relics under strict supervision and expertise.

“You need the right training and permissions to go there with the intention of digging.”

Shaftesbury Town councillor Phil Proctor said: “These metal detectorists should not be doing this, they are more than aware that there are prescribed rules for detection and discovery set out.

“It is just illegal, what else can one say.”

The mayor of Shaftesbury Tim Cook was also approached for comment.

If anyone has further information or witnessed an incident at Castle Hill, contact Dorset Police with crime reference number 55200070682.