What we do & why we do it

At the NCMD we love metal detecting! For over 40 years we have promoted, protected, and encouraged metal detecting for our members and the wider Metal Detecting community.

We are formally recognised by the UK Government, and play a vital role in representing detectorists during the creation of changes to legislation that may affect our freedom to detect in the UK. Protecting our hobby from outside interference is one of the most important things we do, it’s a liberty not shared by most of Europe where detecting is often banned, highly regulated or licensed.

With nearly 40,000 members the NCMD also plays a vital role in representing members interests and queries around the finds recording and treasure processes. We ensure that we are involved with any key groups such as the Portable Antiquities Advisory Group (PAAG), which is in place to discuss and advise on matters relating to the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS). The group is made up of members from the PAS, British Museum, Archaeology Groups, and members of the NCMD Committee. In Scotland we work with KLTR and Treasure Trove Unit.