KEIGHLEY people are being invited to take part in a hands-on archaeological dig.

Individuals and families can go along to Ogden Water Country Park, near Denholme, to help investigate the site of the Ilkley to Manchester Roman road.

The free event begins on Saturday (June 9) and runs until Sunday, June 24.

Behind the initiative is the Celebrating our Woodland Heritage project, managed by Pennine Prospects.

“This site was chosen as a result of a woodland survey undertaken on behalf of Yorkshire Water in March last year,” said Chris Atkinson, woodland heritage officer working on the project.

“The road is difficult to identify on the ground, however its presumed course is recorded on historic OS maps.

“During the survey, a single collapsed tree was recorded.

“Within its root plate were a number of large sandstone slabs which appeared to have been uplifted from a surface. The character of the stones seems to match those identified along the course of the road further to the north, uncovered during excavations between the 1960s and 80s.”

People wishing to take part in the dig do not need any previous experience, but places must be booked by e-mailing Chris.Atkinson@pennineprospects.co.uk.

Mr Atkinson added: “Volunteers must dress for the outdoors and wear sturdy boots or wellingtons.

“Feel free to bring your own gardening gloves – and insect repellent is a must! You may also wish to bring something to eat and drink.”

The end of the excavation will be marked with a Woodland Archaeology Festival at Ogden Park on June 23 and 24, from 11am to 4pm.

The festival will provide people with an opportunity to see the excavation before the Roman road is reburied.

There will be stalls and a range of activities, including iron smelting, prehistoric pot making and displays of traditional woodworking techniques.