UK Fossils: Our Journey
UK Fossils began in 1988 with the creation of typewritten booklets offering fossil hunting guides. These were distributed during early fossil hunting trips. To support these activities, surplus fossils were sold at car boot sales under the original name “UK Fossils,” raising funds for fossil hunting equipment. A family venture between Ian Cruickshanks, Glenda Cruickshanks and their son, Alister Cruickshanks.
In 1998, the UK Fossils website was launched by Alister as a personal project on a “Freeserve Domain.” Initially featuring 30 locations, the site quickly grew into the extensive network it is today, showcasing over 350 fossil locations. A key part of this expansion was Discuss Fossils, a sister site where experts from around the globe assist in identifying fossil discoveries. Alister also organized free fossil hunting meetups and collecting holidays to share knowledge and connect with other enthusiasts.
To further the mission, UKAFH (UK Amateur Fossil Hunters) was established, offering guided fossil hunting trips across the UK. In 2015, Deposits Online was launched as a free digital version of the popular international magazine. Now a widely used resource, Deposits is valued by academic institutions and the public alike.
In 2008, Alister’s wife Alison joined the growing initiative, bringing her passion for crystals to the forefront. This led to the launch of My Lost Gems, expanding the network to include a focus on crystals and minerals.
Today, Alister and Alison live in South Somerset, collecting fossils along the Dorset and Somerset coastline, including the iconic Charmouth area. Alison serves as the in-house fossil preparator, ensuring specimens are cleaned, preserved, and prepared for their next chapter. Many significant finds are donated to museums, while others are sold to fund the network’s nonprofit projects. Together, they continue to inspire and support fossil enthusiasts worldwide.
