Darren helps people retrieve lost heirlooms which have sentimental value. Although he does work full-time, his detectorist work is a side venture which takes place on a 24-hour basis.
Somewhat of a local legend, he has been added to Facebook groups in Brighton, Torquay and Surrey in a bid for his services. His journey began in BCP.
Darren said: “People get so emotional and I get emotional too, but it can be the most amazing feeling.”
“When you speak to the people who have lost their heirlooms, they feel sick with loss but then you see the complete opposite side of them and their joy and happiness when they get their heirlooms back.”
He recently celebrated his 250th discovery, a wedding ring which somebody lost while gardening. As the years pass, demand continues to rise.
Darren has a website and is active on Facebook, although his good reputation means word of mouth now attracts people to his free service.
For his 200th find, a local fan created a sculpture of Darren at Fisherman’s Walk in Boscombe. He also received a nomination for the Pride of Britain award earlier this year.
Darren added: “Being recognised is so humbling, especially when people go out of their way to show their appreciation.”
Darren got into the project because of a love of local history and has made plenty of interesting memories along the way.
Because some people lose more than one item, his count of 250 heirlooms has so far reunited 232 people with their lost goods.
Among his most extraordinary finds was a ring which contained the ashes of the younger brother of the man who was looking for it. This was discovered at the Marsham Court Hotel six years after it went missing.
His 24/7 schedule means he has also pulled all-nighters and early morning shifts. He once received a call at 2.30 am, only for him to set his alarm for 4 am and find the possession by 5am.
He continues to work hard as demand carries on rising.
Photo credit: Darren Wiles
Article by Lewis Eyre
