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News from the Geopark

“A tree for Christmas!  What could be the oldest fossil evidence of trees on a volcanic island in the world, has been discovered in the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark!  

English Riviera Geopark Unveils Incredible Fossil Find at Saltern Cove

The English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking fossil discovery at Saltern Cove, which promises to shed new light on the region's rich geological history. The fossils, trees believed to be around 377 million of years old, were discovered by Dr Kevin Page, President of ProGEO and Honorary Senior Research Fellow at Camborne School of Mines, University of Exeter, during a condition survey of the Geopark’s Sites of Special Scientific Interest for Natural England.

The fossils, identified as pieces of roots and bark belonging to primitive trees known as 'lycopsids', provide a unique glimpse into the ancient landscape of Torbay. Looking a little like the Torbay palm of today, these early, simple trees were the ancestors of the giant trees that once contributed to coal formation, are believed to have reached heights of just 4 meters. This remarkable find is a testament to the unique and diverse landscape of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark, extends from Brixham to Maidencombe encompassing the whole of Torbay and its marine territory. The discovery has sparked excitement among the scientific community, as Dr Kevin Page explains, "These fossils are incredibly significant as they provide valuable insights into the prehistoric environment of Torbay, including the presence of volcanic islands with trees growing on them, this could potentially be the first record of a Devonian desert island with trees, a truly remarkable find.”

Due to the significance, the discovery was kept underwraps for quite some time while the Geopark coordinated a working group bringing together experts from Universities of Exeter, Plymouth, Cardiff and Lille in France, along with Natural England to ensure the best and most appropriate outcomes for the find. Following, site visits and much discussion, it became apparent that the fossils were at risk of erosion by the winter storms so the only option was to recover them.  Being an area of international significance and with a finite geological fossil resource the Geopark ensured all of the required permissions were in place and meticulous care was taken to responsibly excavate and preserve the fossils for future generations. The recovery was conducted by expert geologists and safety measures such as winching the fossils up the cliff were carried out by Hi Line and supervised by Health and Safety professionals.

The fossils are now safely housed at Torquay Museum before undergoing a period of academic study and preparation. This research work will also allow the opportunity to learn more about the geological processes that shaped the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark.

Ultimately, the aim is for the fossils to return for display at the museum. Housing such a significant locally found fossil within one of our local heritage assets and a Geopark Partner is the most fitting outcome.

Saltern Cove located along the South West Coast Path in Paignton, is a beautiful cove featuring a mix of sand, shingle, and rocks. As part of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark, it is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Marine Local Nature Reserve. At present, access to Saltern Cove via the steps at Armchair Rock is currently closed due to storm damage. Torbay Council will carry out the necessary repairs with the aim to reopen the Cove by February – weather dependant.

This discovery highlights the importance of safeguarding our geological heritage and underscores the significance of the protected sites within the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark. It serves as a reminder of the rich natural history that surrounds us and the importance of conservation efforts in preserving it for future generations to enjoy.

"We are incredibly excited about this fossil discovery at Saltern Cove," said Melanie Border – Geopark Coordinator, "This find is a testament to the geological richness of our region. To date our Devonian age rocks have only provided evidence of a marine environment but it’s very exciting to think we now have evidence of volcanic islands and trees too.  It opens a whole new chapter of changing environments and conditions for us and highlights the importance of preserving and studying our natural heritage and reinforces how extraordinary the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark truly is."

‘The recovery has been a brilliant collaborative effort between the Universities, Natural England, Torbay Council, Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, SwisCo, and Hi-Line, even down to Waterside Holiday Park who allowed us to park and access the coast through their site. I am extremely grateful for the help and support provided and would like to express a huge thank you to all involved.  

Learning about and looking for fossils is great fun and there are plenty of places around the geopark where they can be found, even within pebbles on the beach but with the fossils and other geological sites across the geopark being so special and protected, hammering and collection is not allowed.  Please help us to care for these sites, remember to take only photos and leave no trace.

For more information about the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark and to follow the story of the fossil going forward as it undergoes research, please visit www.englishrivierageopark.org.uk.