VISITORS have been taking the chance to learn more about the historic ‘finds’ from two digs at Northallerton’s former prison

An open morning at the town’s library saw members of the team that explored the 3.4 acre site host a hands-on archaeology session as part of an exhibition on the prison’s history.

As part of Family Learning Festival 2018, Hambleton District Council has joined forces with North Yorkshire County Council to mount an exhibition showing how the prison changed through its 270-year history.

Artefacts from two digs undertaken by the York Archaeological Trust (YAT) are on display in the reference library gallery – and two of the trust’s officers were at the library last week to explain more about their work and what they found.

The exhibition also coincides with a survey where the council is asking people whether a heritage facility should be included in the re-developed prison site – and if they could offer any volunteering help.

The exhibition runs until November 17.

Hambleton District Council bought the jail three years ago and will develop it in partnership with Wykeland of Hull as part of the Central Northallerton Development Company.

Planning permission for the site is currently being considered.

It includes retail, business use, restaurants, cinema and a public open space.