EXCAVATIONS are being carried out this week to uncover remains dating back to medieval times on a strip of land in Teesside.

The week-long dig by Tees Archaeology began yesterday on Hartlepool's Headland.

Three three-metre square areas will be excavated, and the team will be examining archaeological remains from the 19th Century back to Anglo-Saxon times.

It is hoped the dig will reveal the remains of medieval buildings, traces of which have already been found in excavations in the surrounding area.

The dig is taking place in part of the grassed area of Croft Gardens, opposite the Borough Buildings.

It is being carried out before work starts later this year on the creation of a town square and landscaping in the area.

Rachel Grahame, project officer for Tees Archaeology, said: "We know that during medieval times the Headland had a bustling quayside town.

"We might find the remains of the merchants' houses, as well as the backyards of houses which were always a hive of activity for small traders such as shoemakers and butchers.

"We are keeping our fingers crossed that any remains of the medieval town weren't destroyed by later building work in the 19th Century."

Dave Wise, board member of the North Hartlepool Partnership, which has organised the dig with funding from regional development agency One NorthEast, said: "Headlanders pride themselves on their rich and diverse heritage.

"I hope that this exciting project will help us learn more about how Headland people lived centuries ago."