A NEW blog has been launched to keep people up to date on research on 17th century skeletons unearthed in Durham.

Archaeologists are analysing the remains of 17th century Scottish soldiers, which were discovered in two mass graves during building work at Durham University’s Palace Green library in November 2013.

The remains are those of soldiers who fought at the 1650 Battle of Dunbar

Over the next few weeks the new blog will share the archaeologists’ progress as they record the bones digitally using 3D modelling techniques.

Professor Chris Gerrard, Head of Archaeology at Durham University, said: “Our Scottish Soldiers Archaeology project has had a huge level of public interest from around the world, and many people have contacted us wanting to know and understand more about the individuals that were found and excavated in Durham.

“Readers of this new blog will gain a fascinating insight into what happens in the laboratory, where leading archaeologists will be carrying out cutting-edge scientific investigations with the bones and teeth of these individuals.

“They can read first-hand accounts of our investigations, which will also include historical research, as well as see pictures and videos of the work taking place.

“In time we hope to discover much more about these people, which could include where they came from, what they ate and what kind of diseases or medical conditions they may have had, adding to our knowledge of this turbulent period of British history.”

To read the blog visit http://community.dur.ac.uk/scottishsoldiers