Dynamic Coast - a geological look at Watchet

Join Andy at Helwell Bay, Watchet - a fantastic opportunity to examine the creatures that inhabited the

shallow seas that covered west Somerset in the early Jurassic period, 200 million years ago. The

superbly exposed sequence of marine limestones and mudstones are highly fossiliferous, ammonites

are particularly common. The extensive foreshore reef exposures also enable a 3D picture of

communities living on the early Jurassic sea floor to be reconstructed, including giant burrowing

worms and "Nautilus islands". Another special feature seen at Helwell Bay is the structural effects of

the Watchet Fault which has a vertical displacement of over a quarter of a kilometre at this location

and juxtaposes some of the oldest Triassic aged rocks against the youngest Jurassic strata exposed on

the west Somerset coast.

Combine this walk with a chance to visit the new East Quay Art Gallery, Watchet and see “SHIFT – Somerset’s Brilliant Coast” – an art exhibition supported by Somerset Wildlife Trust and Contains Art.

A massive "Thank You!" to Andy for volunteering his time! Check out his company at www.Geckoella.co.uk for quality surveys and advice on ecology, geology and building stones.