The site of the new St Barnabas Hospice development at Northbrook Farm, in Titnore Lane, behind the Durrington campus of Northbrook College, is currently being excavated by a team of archaeologists, prior to the building work.

Tools ranging from metal detectors and hand trowels to massive hydraulic diggers are being used to unearth finds dating back to the Bronze Age.

Phil Emery, consulting archaeologist at the 2.2 hectare site, said a Roman Villa had once existed on nearby land now occupied by the college.

Ancient finds

He said: "This was a villa dwelling lying at the foot of the Downs taking advantage of this setting; the same sort of qualities of the site St Barnabas are taking advantage of with their current scheme."

Discoveries have spanned the millennia, including ancient pottery and tools and a cap badge from World War Two.

With more than three weeks of digging remaining, there could be yet more ancient wonders waiting to be unearthed.

Locals can join the work or examine items found at the site in sessions throughout September.

Join in

Guided site tours will take place at 10am, 11am and noon on Saturday, September 13, 20 and 27, with processing of discoveries taking place on the same days.

Places must be booked.

Call Chris Clarke, excavation manager, on 07808 730226 or email Titnorelaneexcavation@aocarchaeology.com

Worthing Archaeological Society will help with the dig between Monday and September 19.

Join the work under their guidance, with temporary membership costing £10 (minimum three days, maximum one week).

Again, places must be booked. Email Keith Bolton at ka.bolton@virgin.net


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