Gary and Angela Williams from Overton, Lancashire, were enjoying a stroll along Middleton Sands beach near Morecambe Bay when an unpleasant, strong scent caught their attention. Curious, they followed the smell across the sand until they spotted an unusual lump resembling a stone lying near the shoreline. The odd object immediately reminded them of something called ambergris — a rare substance produced by sperm whales and highly valued in the perfume industry.
Carefully wrapping the lump in a scarf, they took it home to examine it further. Gary, an engineer, weighed it on his fishing scales and found it to be 1.57 kilograms, just over half the weight of a famous piece found nearby in 2013 that was worth £120,000. Angela, a nurse, and Gary are now exploring potential buyers, estimating their find could be worth around £50,000.
Ambergris forms inside the digestive tract of sperm whales, defending their stomachs from sharp diet items like squid beaks. After being expelled, it can float in the ocean for decades, hardening into a waxy, grey lump that perfume makers prize for its scent-enhancing qualities.
Gary described the discovery as a shock, especially since the beach area is seldom visited. Although valuable, the lump has a powerful, unpleasant odor—something like a mix of farm manure and squid—and feels like a hard rubber ball with a waxy surface that leaves residue on the fingers.
The couple, who often seek unique items along the coast, are amazed by their fortunate find. If its authenticity holds, the money could help them fulfill their dream of buying a static caravan. They have already consulted experts in France and New Zealand to verify the ambergris, and they eagerly await confirmation.
This unexpected discovery is a reminder that, sometimes, treasures lie hidden in the most unlikely places, waiting for a curious eye and a little luck to find them.
