Uncovering Warwickshire’s past
Residents across Warwickshire are being called to action to help uncover the county’s past.
Two weekends packed with free activities are planned to encourage people to discover more about the history and geology of their local area, and Warwickshire County Council’s field service’s team are looking for volunteers to help carry out a dig and learn about archaeology.
The fun will begin on Saturday 17 June and continue on Sunday 18 June, Saturday 24 June and Sunday 25 June, from 10.00am to 4.00pm at Burmington Village Hall, the Manor House and field near Shipston.
Burmington is stepped in medieval history. The Manor House and surrounding area is of great interest and was originally thought to be part of a deserted medieval village. Research during the weekends will discover whether this is true.
Special guest, Stewart Ainsworth, from Channel 4’s Time Team and English Heritage will be coming along on June 25 to help unearth the truth. Experts will be on hand to teach techniques and talk about the archaeology of the area.
Stuart will be holding practical sessions to learn about surveying techniques and analysis and will take groups around the site explaining what to look for.
The weekends will be full of activities and visitors on June 24 and 25 can meet Anglo-Saxons and Vikings to discover how they lived, worked and played. Refreshments and lunch will be available and there will be plenty of archaeological activities for children to enjoy.
There will be a show of Anglo-Saxon and Viking combat and people can view replica objects and see items discovered by local people.
An archaeology and local history fair will be at the event with a variety of displays and manned stalls providing hints, tips and support to people wishing to learn how to carry out research.
The results of the survey will be unveiled on the last day.
Christina Evans, Archaeological Project Manger for Warwickshire County Council said: “Come along for some hands on history. Anyone can join in and there will be something to interest everyone.”
For further details contact Christina Evans, Archaeological Project Manger, Warwickshire County Council, Tel: 01926 412734, Email: christinaevans@warwickshire.gov.uk