Budding young archaeologists joined the Cravenology 2012 Big Dig at Netherside Hall, Threshfield, during the first two weeks of August.

Under the guidance of archaeologists, 20 children excavated and researched the Victorian walled gardens at Netherside Hall. Many interesting artefacts were found, including a pristine Victorian penny from 1866 and the foundations of an interesting wall.

Cravenology is a newly-established group that seeks to promote archaeology and heritage studies across the Dales to young people aged from ten to 17.

The project is funded by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority’s sustainable development fund, which is managed by the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust, and is supported by Upper Wharfedale School, Community Archaeology and the Bordley Township Project.

Seeking to expand the work of Upper Wharfedale School’s archaeology club, Cravenology will work with primary and secondary schools to give students the opportunity to learn about local history through hands-on archaeology and research Cravenology is looking to increase its membership, which is free, and other events are planned from September.

For more information, contact John Mitton, head of history at Upper Wharfedale School, on (01756) 752215.