The BAJR hotline for reporting rogue units has proved a success. The handful of complaints so far have been dealt with by alerting the appropriate County Archaeologist, the Health and Safety Executive or the IFA. David Connolly of BAJR told The Digger: 'Curators think the hotline is a useful tool, and contractors see it as a wake up call and a reasonable way to watch out for cowboys. The head of some large national organisations have also privately backed the initiative. Even a group who have been wrongly accused are backing the hotline as it is easy to squash rumours before they start.'

However, not all archaeological units are happy. The Digger has learned that a director at one unit contacted BAJR to complain about the hotline. He wrote that it seemed to be 'divisive and slighting towards the efforts of the IFA' and risked fragmenting support for the professional body. The IFA's Peter Hinton confirmed that the unit director had spoken to him and initially he shared his concerns. However, Mr Hinton added 'I've spoken to David Connolly since then and have been reassured by his explanation of what the hotline is attempting to achieve.'

The hotline number is 07876 528 498 or email info@bajr.org

Web Links :

BAJR Hotline