After a short panic with one of those new computer projectors and associated laptop computer, something we are beginning to see more of with the professional academic and the like, Richard breezed into his lecture in the time honoured traditions of the seasoned campaigner. The talk was split into two parts, the first being the trials and tribulations of field work in such locations from; passports, permission and imprisonment, to coping with life in an hostile environment whilst doing field work. The conclusion of this was that the Japanese expeditions had it about right with first preparing a small landing strip and flying in the sushi each day. A luxury not afforded to Richard, his team having only one Land Rover and a truck of sorts.

Geologically, this was the story of a marine transgression across the Sahara from Morocco to Niger, one that occurred primarily because of sea level changes. He laid bare the evidence of terrestrial life from fossil wood of once forested areas to Sauropod remains. During his teams exploits they have found the remains of some 26 individual Sauropods at one location. Richard explained that recovery of these fossils was limited by the constraints on the team's transportation, (2 vehicles does not leave that much space for big bones!). In all, the Professor and his team have returned on six occasions to study and recover specimens.

The scene was further developed with fossil fish skulls from, a freshwater species native to river systems that once flowed. Significantly this species' only other occurrence has been in fossil remains on the other side of the Atlantic. A clue that when these fish were alive, the two Continents were still in contact or at an early separation stage. The split was implied to be the prime cause of sea level change.

The scene changed following this time to a marginal marine environment indicated by fossil fauna and flora. The story of the marine transgression continued with ostracods, echinoids by the skip full, Lung fish with a tooth so big that it is almost unbelievable compared to specimens found here, at home. The tale of the fossilized giant turtle carapaces, all found upside down and sort of on top of a pinnacle of eroded sediments was fascinating. However, Richard's original doctorate was based on the study of turtle remains from the Isle of Sheppey, (Les said whilst introducing our guest, perhaps we should be looking for turtles from another angle on our next visit? Note 1.).

I was intrigued how the case for this Trans Sahara Seaway was developed by the evidence gathered, and Richard's excellent presentation and faultless performance made it easy to follow, but I was left with a nagging feeling of a story half told and not only because it is dry land today! All said it was a good, informative talk, pitched about right for our membership

R Coleman (February 2004)

Members' finds on display:

Sadly, nothing on this occasion, or more precisely , the opportunity to have a good look round and a chat was not a luxury afforded to this member on the evening. Finalizing some last minute detail with the Society's forthcoming show (been and gone now) took precedence. However, Kevin North brought along his latest piece of facing (half done) and we both had a rather all too brief discussion on why large facets are difficult to polish

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All text & pictures © Roger Coleman 2004