Volunteers wanted for archaeological dig in Kent
The Churches Conservation Trust today announces an exciting initiative for which opportunities for local volunteers will be available.
An archaeological excavation is set to take place at St Peter’s Church, in the centre of the historic town of Sandwich, with work being carried out by Canterbury Archaeological Trust and Dover Archaeological Group. The work will take place on weekends from Sunday 22nd January – Sunday 19th February 2017.
The initiative is part of the project to develop St Peter’s Church as the sustainable tourist destination, Haven Heights. CCT recently completed the first phase by opening up access to the medieval tower so that visitors can enjoy views across the town.
The dig will lead to the installation of toilets outside the building, on the south-west side of the church and is being made possible with the help of a £49,000 grant from The Coastal Revival Fund. Due to the nature and significance of the site, an archaeological excavation is necessary.
The level of the area to be excavated will be reduced to the original floor level of the church, which has risen significantly since the tower and south aisle collapsed in 1661.
Gabriella Misuriello, Conservation Projects Manager, CCT says:
‘We are very excited to move a step forward with our project for Haven Heights at St Peter’s, for which the involvement of and support from the local community is vital.’
Annie Partridge, Community Archaeologist, Canterbury Archaeological Trust says:
‘This is a great opportunity for people to get involved with local archaeology and will allow us to investigate the remains of the south aisle of St Peter’s and find out what happened when the tower collapsed. We expect to find masonry and parts of the original tower including architectural details.’
Volunteers are being sought to help out with on-site excavation work as well as processing finds and soil samples at the Canterbury Archaeological Trust offices in Canterbury. All volunteers will be supported by members of staff from Canterbury Archaeological Trust and CCT.
To take part in this exciting project, please contact Annie on [email protected] or call Megan on 07884 436 649.