Newtown & Llanllwchairn Town Council were pleased to see the start of the Newtown Mound Excavation start yesterday, Monday 7th February.
The weather was kind as keen volunteers excitedly opened the trenches to discover the history of this area of Newtown. The excavation project will be managed by Clwyd- Powys Archaeological Trust and will continue for the next three weeks.
Lead Cllr Richard Edwards joined the team on the first day and commented “What an exciting day for Newtown. It is great that the dig is finally under way after being held up by Covid. It will be great to hopefully understand more about the history of this area of town that little is known about”.
Senior archaeologists Ian Grant and Richard Hankinson were on site leading a team of enthusiastic volunteers, guiding them through the requirements of the excavation and showing them vital techniques to preserve any finding. Commenting on the first day Ian Grant “We had an overwhelming response to volunteering by the local community, with over 100 applicants. Many have never been involved in an archaeological dig and are interested to be involved in a dig so close to home”. Any findings of the excavation and further information on the project with be on show at Oriel Davies Gallery. Family -friendly craft activities and resources will also be available to take home
Photograph 1: Lead Cllr Richard Edwards with Senior Archaeologist Ian Grant from Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust.
Photograph 2 : Lead Cllr Richard Edwards joining in with the excavation with keen volunteer.
