A PROJECT in which residents opened up their gardens for small scale digs, unearthing almost 20,000 hidden treasures, has won a national award.
Small Pits, Big Ideas, was run by Worcestershire County Council’s Archive and Archaeology Service (Explore the Past) and has won The Marsh Community Archaeology Project of the Year 2023.
Supported by experienced archaeologists, mentors, students, and local archaeology groups, more than 400 people took part in digging test pits and processing the finds in search of rural Worcestershire’s past.
Unearthing a trove of more than 19,000 hidden treasures, the oldest find were prehistoric flints from Wolverley, Bewdley and White Ladies Aston, while top contenders for most fascinating find were Wichenford’s counterfeit Georgian coins.
One of the weirdest finds was a wig curler from Wolverley!
Marcus Hart, the county’s communities portfolio holder, said: “Many congratulations to our Archive and Archaeology Service, volunteers, and partners on winning this award.
“Small Pits, Big Ideas has not only unearthed fascinating historical artefacts but also fostered a strong sense of community among local residents.”
Nina O’Hare, community project officer for Explore the Past, added: “It’s been a joy to run this project and help more than 400 people investigate six Worcestershire villages.
“Seeing how much fun people had over the Big Digs and the interest sparked has been really rewarding.
“A huge thank you to all our local partner organisations and volunteers, as we couldn’t have done it without them.”
The awards showcase excellence in archaeology, celebrating the passion and dedication of individuals and the outstanding contribution of archaeology projects which create social, cultural, and environmental benefit.
For more information including reports, recorded talks, blogs and videos visit
https://www.explorethepast.co.uk/project/small-pits-big-ideas/
