Pupils archaeological dig on First World War Army barracks (From The Northern Echo)

Pupils archaeological dig on First World War Army barracks

11:16am Sunday 14th November 2010 in Ripon News

YOUNGSTERS are to carry out an archaeological dig on the site of a former First World War Army barracks.

The Ripon Cathedral Choir School pupils are to take part in national The Big Dig event with the help of archaeologist Kevin Cale.

They are to dig up part of the school grounds on Whitcliffe Lane to find out more about the area around the building.

The area to be dug up was once part of the original Ripon Racecourse and also the Army barracks before it became the school.

The children are to look for artefacts which they will clean and photograph during The Big Dig on Friday, November 26.They will then help Mr Cale and Jane Furse, a parent of three pupils and an architectural historian, write up a full report on the findings.

Ian Carter, head of history at the school, said: "Whatever we unearth, we are glad to have this opportunity.

"A horse shoe, a couple of army uniform buttons and some bullets would be great to find "But I think the children are all hoping that something spectacular like a rifle or part of canon will be discovered.

"We know that the Big Dig will help uncover more of the fascinating history of the ground upon which our school stands."