Phase 2 dates now confirmed - see below

NEW:Interim Historical Study by Oxford Archaeology North - April 2012

If you have an interest in local history and are keen to find out what's involved in an archaeological excavation, then this project might be just the one for you!

A Fantastic Start 

Following a successful launch at Tosside Community Hall in the middle of September (which attracted 50 people), Phase 1 of the project is now complete. And what fantastic progress has been made!

Thanks to the dedication and enthusiasm of local people and volunteers, combined with expert supervision by professional archaeologists from Lancaster-based Oxford Archaeology North, a significant part of the church foundations have now been revealed.

After only 12 days between October and November, the walls of the entire nave and porch have been uncovered, every stone trowelled clean, drawn, plotted and photographed (in triplicate) and a huge amount of soil dug out and barrowed away.　

Having had no idea how far we would get in Phase 1, it's been great to reach the stage we have and that's all down to the hard work of those who took part. (Helped by generous amounts of home-baking!)

It's also been lovely to see both adults and children getting involved and making a real difference to the understanding we have about Bowland's heritage.

As winter beckons, we've packed away our buckets and shovels. Plans are being made to grade the edges of the "dig", to make sure there are no steep sides. The foundations will then be covered with geotextile and sand to protect them from the worst of the weather until we can get back on site in spring when, funds allowing, we aim to uncover the remaining part of the church – the chancel.

Many thanks to United Utilities, major funders of the project, and Slaidburn Archive for all their support.

If you weren't able to get involved this time round, do keep an eye on the website and in local newsletters where we'll be publishing dates for Phase 2. If you would like any more information in the meantime contact, Sandra Silk at the AONB office on 01200 448000 or email sandra [dot] silk [at] lancashire [dot] gov [dot] uk

Phase 2 dates now confirmed!

The second phase of our archaeological excavation work at the site of St. James Church, Stocks is now well underway. We started on 21st April and plan to run sessions starting on 28th April and 12th May, each running for 3 consecutive days. These sessions are a great chance to learn some new skills and find out a little bit more about the history of this fascinating area.

If you would like to join in the excavation please book your place in advance by contacting Sandra Silk on 01200 448000 or email sandra [dot] silk [at] lancashire [dot] gov [dot] uk