Thurlestone Submerged Forest

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Revealed by recent storms, a hidden treasure lies buried beneath the surface of Thurlestone Sands. A volunteer's keen eye, using our recording app, brought this remarkable discovery to light. This model is part of a vast submerged forest or intertidal peat deposit that has been slowly exposed over time. The remains have been revealed on several occasions, with the first recorded sighting dating back to 1866. However, it wasn't until 1923 that the site was rediscovered, yielding a treasure trove of prehistoric artifacts. A logboat, partially preserved in the peat, was unearthed during this excavation. Despite some uncertainty surrounding its identification, experts believe that part of a canoe may have been found on the beach. Unfortunately, the vessel no longer exists, leaving us to ponder its origins and significance. Further investigation is needed to uncover more about this ancient watercraft. Radiocarbon dating conducted by Exeter University in 1999 shed new light on the history of Thurlestone Sands. The results suggested that the accumulation of peat began during the early/middle Bronze Age, around 1900-1630 BC, and lasted for approximately 100-400 years. This discovery has sparked a renewed interest in the site's rich history and potential secrets waiting to be uncovered. To explore this fascinating find further, visit the interactive coastal map on Citizen.org.uk/interactive-coastal-map/70232.