By Mal Butler
A fossil hunter for 40 years has his collection on show at Sandown’s Dinosaur Isle for the next six months.
Glenn Martin, from Whitwell, is showing examples from the ‘Crackers’ formation and Atherfield clays, as well as two multi-blocks from the lower Crioceras and Scaphites beds..
He said: “I have been a keen fossil hunter all my life, and I have been collecting at Whale Chine for around 40 years.
“I have dedicated my life to fossil hunting on just one stretch of beach. I remember first going there when I was 12, and seeing impressions of giant Ammonites in the rocks on the beach, and being awe-struck.
“My obsession began! Over the next four decades I have accumulated a good selection of everything you can find from Atherfield Point to Walpen Chine.
“I have had discussions with Dinosaur Isle in recent times, offering to exhibit some of my collection, and the museum has a new curator who is keen to make some changes.
“I plan to exhibit some of my collection at the museum for the next six months, then other collectors will be invited to do the same, and showcase exactly what you can find in different areas of the Island.
“Having such a personal display will hopefully convey the passion for fossil hunting, and link in more with locals, and visitors from further afield.”
Isle of Wight Observer