About Us
History
The Teignbridge Archaeological Society was founded in 2023, with the inaugural lecture presented at Parke in October 2024, by its founder, Gary Mills of Oakford Archaeology.
Since then, the society has built up an online community of over 1000 people, and began taking on formal memberships in early 2025.
Aims and objectives
Preserve Local Heritage
We protect and conserve the rich archaeological sites and landscapes of Teignbridge and beyond.
Promote Ethical Practice
We advocate for responsible archaeology, especially in metal detecting, and ensure proper processes are followed.
Support Research and Exploration
We investigate local and broader historical questions through surveys, excavation, and documentary research.
Champion Innovation
We embrace new archaeological methods and work with experts to stay at the forefront of best practice.
Engage the Community
We’re a society run by the community, for the community—open to everyone, whatever their background or experience.
Develop Skills and Knowledge
We provide hands-on training and learning opportunities for anyone interested in archaeology, whether as a hobby or career.
Build Partnerships
We collaborate with archaeologists, institutions, universities, and local groups to support heritage and research.
Celebrate Teignbridge’s Past
We raise awareness of our local history and support projects that connect people to their heritage.
Share What We Discover
We publish and present our findings to add to local and national archaeological knowledge.
Plan for the Future
We work sustainably to ensure our projects and discoveries benefit future generations.
Mission statement
Here you can read up on our mission statement document. This document was created as a declaration of our core objectives and the positive impact we aim to make on our members, the people, communities and institutions who we will be working with, and broader society as a whole.
{Awaiting document from Gary for statement link}
Our team
Chairman
Gary Mills
Gary’s position as chairman is to provide direction and leadership and keeping the society moving smoothly, whilst also making sure the legal and administration is kept up and date and the committee members trained. Gary also conducts a lot of fundraising and outreach for the society and works tirelessly to make sure the society is a success.
Gary also uses his contacts in the archaeological world to further the advancement of the society.
Gary currently holds a foundation degree in Archaeology and is working towards his BSc. Gary has also obtained his First Response Emergency Care qualifications and will be the lead first aider for the society. Gary also holds a full GVC drone licence and specialises in digital applications in archaeology such as photogrammetry, orthomosaic and other applications. Gary currently works as a Field Archaeolgist for Oakford Archaeology and is also training to be an Emergency Care Assistant with the goals of doing his paramedic qualifications in the future. Gary also has experience in surveying, using total stations, 3D scanners and GPS machines and using CAD software to do topographical and building plans. Gary’s interest in archaeology is the practical application, from digging, surveying and community engagement.
Secretary
Jowan Albon
Hi, I am Jowan Albon and I am the secretary of the Teignbridge Archaeological Society.
As secretary I manage the records of the society, such as the minutes of meetings, membership forms and other important documents.
Whilst I do not currently work in archaeology, I did my undergraduate and masters degrees in it, and as well as volunteering extensively with the Dartmoor National Park, National Trust and other local groups, I also worked as a field archaeologist for a commercial unit in Devon and on sites across the southwest.
I joined the committee as, like Gary, I also believe that there is a gap and a need for a practical society like ours, to help people pursue archaeology as a career or interest to the fullest of their ability.
My areas of interest in archaeology is primarily Later Prehistory, specifically the Bronze Age. And as some of you may know, my favourite site is Grimspound on Dartmoor! I also enjoy identifying finds such as pottery or flint tools, and the recording elements of archaeology such as plan drawings as well as surveying – specifically geophysical surveys!
Treasurer
Philippa Simmons
(awaiting description)
Museum Liaison Officer
Raph Allnatt
I am originally from Newton Abbot and became interested in history, classics and archaeology at secondary school and sixth form. I have a degree in ancient history and archaeology from Exeter University, and am continuing there with a PhD in ancient history (on the propaganda of Roman allied kingdoms in the eastern Mediterranean). I am also very interested in local archaeology in South Devon, especially the Roman and early medieval periods. I have recently written a booklet covering the archaeology of Newton Abbot and its surrounding countryside: Newton Abbot in Ancient Times: from the Bronze Age to the Norman Conquest. As museums officer for the society, I will help to promote collaborative projects with local museums.
Specialist Liaison Officer
Clive Hammett
(awaiting description)
Events Officer
Theresa Bennett
After 21 years as a police officer in the Metropolitan Police and over 14 years working in secondary schools in Hertfordshire and Torbay, together with some time working in a Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub, I decided to leave public service behind and join the National Trust. I am currently working at Greenway, the holiday home of Agatha Christie, and am enjoying my new role. I have a son currently studying a PhD in International Relations and a graduate daughter working in the private sector. My husband and I enjoy holidays in the UK and abroad and visiting historical sites. My interest in archaeology dates back to my teens when I undertook a course in archaeology at the British Museum, and having made the move to South Devon over 4 years ago I have been able to enjoy a much greater range of history and archaeology. As Events Officer for Teignbridge Archaeological Society I am looking forward to enjoying both the archaeology and the history, and meeting new friends!
Safeguarding Lead
Candi Farnden-Collins
(awaiting description)
Social Media Officer
Kurt Campbell
(awaiting description)
Join Us Today
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