The man was witnessed with a metal detector and trowel, digging around the grade-one protected site in woods on Noirmont headland and leaving it with backfilled holes.
Jersey Heritage, Société Jersiaise, the National Trust for Jersey and environment officers have now urged the public to report anyone they witness causing damage to any of Jersey’s historic sites.
‘We are shocked and saddened that La Hougue de Vinde has been deliberately damaged, and for what appears to be personal gain,’ the joint statement said.
‘The majority of people are incredibly respectful of these ancient sites, but given this latest damage, we felt the need to highlight such illegal activity and to remind people of the importance of the dolmens. They are part of our collective heritage and should be protected for future generations.
‘We would like to thank the lady who reported seeing the damage being done at La Hougue de Vinde for her vigilance, and to encourage anyone who sees any suspicious activity in the future to follow her lead and report it.’
Ken Rive, president of the Jersey Metal Detecting Society, said his club worked hard to ensure that its members knew the regulations regarding historic sites.
‘We condemn any illegal metal detecting activity, such as that discovered at La Hougue de Vinde,’ he said.
‘We believe in responsible metal detecting that abides by legal restrictions and ensures that any finds can be properly researched and recorded. We would ask anyone unsure of the permissions required to metal detect in Jersey to contact the club as soon as possible.’
Anyone witnessing suspicious activity at protected sites is asked to get in contact with Jersey Heritage on 633300.
