Annabel Lawrence
Lecturer
Background
I did my first try dive in 1984 off Chesil beach and decided there and then to pursue a career involving diving. As a student at the University of St Andrews I dived around the Scottish coast and became involved in the first Sound of Mull Archaeological Project in 1994.
Following graduation from St Andrews I trained as a commercial diver and joined the Archaeological Diving Unit (ADU) as a professional maritime archaeologist in 1995. From 1995- 2002 I carried out dives on many of the UK’s designated historic wreck sites, in addition to numerous other non-designated wreck sites throughout UK Territorial Waters. During this time I became involved in many underwater archaeological projects including the excavation of the remains of the HMS Pandora led by the Tropical Queensland Museum.
Following the National Heritage 2002 I moved to English Heritage to become part of the Maritime Archaeology team responsible for implementing English Heritage’s initial policy for the management of maritime archaeology in England: Taking to the Water.
In 2005 I decided to take all these joint diving experiences and apply it to the recreational diving market. As the owner of Lochaline Dive Centre, I gave recreational divers the opportunity to dive on some of the best wrecks in the UK. Between 2004 - 2016 I carried out many diving expeditions recording the historic assets on the seabed in the Sound of Mull, SOMAP (The Sound of Mull Archaeological Project) most recently recorded the remains of a crashed Mark II Short Sunderland.
Teaching Responsibilities
I am Module Leader on International Marine and Coastal Tourism, Marine and Coastal Tourism Field Course and Critical Perspectives of Marine and Coastal Tourism.
Academic Qualifications
Maritime Studies MLitt University of St Andrews
National Governing Body and other Awards / Positions held
BSAC Snorkel Instructor
Memberships
Argyll Coast and Islands Hope Spot team
What is your main outdoor interest?
Snorkelling, SCUBA and Seatrekking.