The Hampole Discontinuity and Hampole Beds (Cadeby Formation, Upper Permian): deposition on the Zechstein English Shelf, South Yorkshire, UK, with data from new exposures

Abstract

A review of the exposures in the Cadeby Formation, Upper Permian (Lopingian Series) in South Yorkshire by the Sheffield Area Geology Trust revealed groups of previously undescribed sites near the base of the Sprotborough Member, at, and just above, the Hampole Discontinuity. These sites indicate: a wider degree of palaeoenvironmental variation along the Hampole Discontinuity surface than was previously evident; that the discontinuity surface is not laterally continuous; and imply some caution is needed when using these exposures as marker horizons. The field data is used to inform a palaeoenvironmental reconstruction for the period of the Hampole regression. A complex of near-offshore pools and islands, an area of partly exposed shoal and lagoon, and an embayment are identified.