Now’s your chance to be part of a new ‘Time team’ project

Chedham’s Yard, the village’s 19th blacksmiths and wheelwrights workshop, is due to re-open next year in its restored state with an education centre alongside.

But there is still much work needed to be done - and the Chedham’s Yard Trust, which was in February awarded charity status, is organising a three-to-four week archaeological dig at the site from Monday April 18.

While more than 5,000 artefacts, including tools, materials and finished items made at the Victorian workshops, have already been found, members of the trust are expecting more to be unearthed.

Heritage project officer Emma Banks said: “You never know what you might find on an archaeological dig - that’s what makes them so exciting.

“We’re hoping to get six volunteers for each day of the dig, which sounds like a lot, but we’ve already had a lot of interest so far.”

Trust chairman John McKenzie said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for people to help unearth the history of our Victorian workshops. If you’ve ever watched Tim Team and wished you could try it, this is your opportunity.”

A professional archaeologist from Archaeology Warwickshire will train and lead volunteers to dig, sieve and wash items coming out of the ground and record the progress of the dig.

It is free to take part and all equipment, as well as light refreshments, will be provided. The trust is planning to hold dig days during the Easter and Royal Wedding bank holiday weekends as well to give those who usually work during weekdays to get involved.

Building work, which has been made possible thanks to £1 million the site won in a BBC Restoration Village competition, is due to begin next month.

Anyone wishing to take part in the dig should call 01789 841434 or email [email protected]