Mark McGeachin, 42, and his son James, 9, have been engaging in magnet-fishing adventures in Scotland’s rivers and canals. During their searches, they have discovered an array of lethal weapons including machetes, meat cleavers, axes, and even a sharp Japanese samurai sword. Mark, who founded the Glasgow Magnet Fishing group, sees this unusual hobby as a way to educate his son about the dangers of gang culture and knife crime. He emphasizes the importance of teaching James the risks associated with carrying weapons, urging him to never try to be a hero if confronted with a knife.
Their excursions have provided them with a deeper understanding of Glasgow’s gang-related issues, often uncovering evidence that hints at criminal activity. For example, they recently found eight knives in one day in a canal area known for criminal activities, including a large machete, smaller machetes, various blades, and a meat cleaver. The group, which finds around 100 weapons each year, diligently reports their finds to the police out of concern that these weapons may have been used in violent crimes. Mark emphasizes the potential significance of these discoveries in solving crimes and providing closure to affected families.
The group’s commitment to safety and security is evident in their response to finding weapons, including firearms, and reporting them promptly to the authorities. Mark and James have discovered an abundance of grenades and bombs during their travels around the UK, highlighting the need for vigilance and caution when engaging in magnet fishing. Mark’s dedication to educating James about the dangers of weapons and criminal activities resonates throughout their shared experiences, emphasizing the importance of being informed and aware of potential risks.
Mark’s motivation for taking James on these trips extends beyond the thrill of treasure hunting to include valuable life lessons about safety, crime prevention, and community awareness. By involving his son in activities that teach him about real-world consequences and issues, Mark hopes to equip James with the knowledge and understanding he needs to navigate his surroundings safely. His straightforward advice to James in dangerous situations, such as encountering someone with a weapon, underscores the critical importance of prioritizing personal safety and avoiding confrontation.
In addition to their focus on modern crime-related finds, the group remains eager to explore Scotland’s historical sites and artifacts, aiming to uncover pieces of the past that shed light on the country’s rich heritage. Their plans to search for items such as Rob Roy’s sword and the wreckage of a pirate ship demonstrate a diverse interest in both contemporary concerns and historical curiosities. Through their magnet-fishing expeditions, Mark, James, and the Glasgow Magnet Fishing group are not only making intriguing discoveries but also contributing to community safety, awareness, and preservation of history.
Overall, Mark McGeachin and his son James have embarked on an enlightening and educational journey through magnet fishing, unearthing weapons, artifacts, and historical treasures that uncover layers of Glasgow’s complex past and present. Their dedication to safety, crime prevention, and community engagement underscores the transformative power of shared experiences that blend adventure with insightful lessons about society’s challenges and opportunities. By combining the thrill of exploration with a commitment to learning and awareness, Mark and James are setting a powerful example of how curiosity, responsibility, and respect for the past can shape a meaningful and impactful journey.
