MARCH Mayor Andrew Pugh showed he had the golden touch when he visited Fossils Galore in March.

Cambs Times: A gold panning activity is launched at Fossils Galore in MarchA gold panning activity is launched at Fossils Galore in March (Image: Archant)

Mr Pugh was invited to officially open the centre’s gold panning summer holiday activity by taking himself back in time to try his hand at finding treasure.

Cambs Times: A gold panning activity is launched at Fossils Galore in MarchA gold panning activity is launched at Fossils Galore in March (Image: Archant)

Tucked within the murky waters of the panning table was hoardes of fools gold and crystals just waiting for visitors to find a piece.

Cambs Times: A gold panning activity is launched at Fossils Galore in MarchA gold panning activity is launched at Fossils Galore in March (Image: Archant)

The gold panning process is one of the simplest ways to extract gold and is popular with geology enthusiasts because all you need is a panning bowl and a skilful eye, said Fossils Galore owner Jamie Jordan.

“It’s the oldest method of mining gold and takes quite a skill to get it right, he said.

“Everyone who finds gold will be presented with a certificate.”

The activity will be up and running at the March attraction daily throughout the summer holidays and costs £3 a go.

Mr Pugh and councillor Rob Skoulding gave panning a try joined by members of staff and Dino the Fossils Galore mascot.