Bournemouth University

School of Applied Sciences

Lottery money sees return of the Swash

Date: 23 August 2012

Maritime Archaeologists at Bournemouth University are collaborating with the Borough of Poole’s Museum Service to open up the wonders of the Swash Channel Wreck to the general public. The project will show how archaeologists discover, investigate and protect the underwater past.

Inspiration came when Bournemouth University’s maritime archaeology programme leader Paola Palma was working on the Historic Swash Channel Wreck, she decided that such an amazing find could not be kept to be viewed by only a small number of people.

The Bournemouth Echo quoted Palma as saying: “I was working with my students on this fascinating underwater site when I realised that only a small group of us - myself and my colleague Dave Parham, the students and a few others - would be able to enjoy this incredible maritime heritage...This made me realise how important it is that we involve the wider community.”

The project includes many events, workshops, talks and internet resources which allow people to explore and learn about their coastal heritage. All of this was made possible by a £140,200 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, an organisation which aims to preserve and make accessible the Nation’s rich heritage.

To get involved with the project and contact a member of the team you can email madaboutthewreck@bournemouth.ac.uk.