YOUNG archaeologists are being invited to follow in the footsteps of Indiana Jones to help discover the secrets of an ancient jewel.

The Middleham jewel, described as one of the finest pieces of Gothic jewellery found, is on display at the Yorkshire Museum, in York, this week.

As the latest in the Indiana Jones blockbuster hit the cinemas, young visitors can look for clues to the jewel's history in a series of mystery tours, led by museum staff.

The origins of the jewel are shrouded in mystery - who did it belong to, what does its puzzling inscription mean and what was hidden inside it?

Amy Parkinson, the museum's learning manager, said: "The Middleham jewel is one of our most prized objects. It is stunning, but it is also very mysterious.

"We need young treasure hunters to come and help us work out the clues hidden around the museum to see if they can shed any light on its many mysteries.

"Maybe they will find something the experts have missed."

Youngsters taking up the challenge will receive a treasure map with information on how to find the clues hidden among the museum's exhibits.

Each clue will reveal a letter which, when put together, will reveal a name associated with the jewel. Next Tuesday and Thursday, there will be an opportunity to look at the jewel out of its case.

The sessions will run from 12.30pm to 1.30pm, in the museum, led by Andrew Morrison, curator of archaeology. Booking is necessary for this event, which costs £5 per person.

To book, and for more information, call 01904-650333 or visit yorkshire museum.org.uk