Help to uncover our 18th century jewel (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Help to uncover our 18th century jewel

RESTORING one of Swindon's favourite playgrounds isn't just the preserve of the professionals. Local people have a valuable part to play in recreating the 18th century jewel.

Even people who have never been on a dig are being encouraged to sample archaeology and join in the task of uncovering, washing and sorting finds. The experts from Wessex Archaeology are also ready to take finds into local schools and give children an insight into the work.

The flora and fauna of the 250-acre estate is also part of the project. Wiltshire Wildlife Trust has already started surveying the flowers and animals that live there and it is looking for help from the public to ensure the restoration is carried out sensitively.

Events at the park planned so far include an exhibition to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Swindon Borough Council's purchase of the estate. The display, held in the visitor centre, opened on Saturday.

On April 14 there is an archaeology open day, when visitors will be able to meet and talk to archaeologists working on the site. The day runs from 10am to 4pm.

Tours of the dam wall in the company of the project's buildings archaeologist are planned for April 24, but need to be booked.

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is holding the first of the season's evening bat talk and walks on May 3, from 7.30pm. "People in Swindon seem to love bats," said Swindon wildlife officer Neil Pullen. "Last year when we had talks children even came dressed as bats."

A great crested newt hunt is planned for May 19. "No-one knows if they are present at Lydiard and we want the public to help us solve this mystery," said Mr Pullen. The hunt starts at 8.30pm and as with the bat talk, boots and torches are required.

Early birds can take advantage of the opportunity to hear the dawn chorus in full on May 8 between 5.30am and 8.30am, while bats will be the subject of more surveys on May 26 and June 9 and 16, between 9pm and 11pm.

For more details call the park on 01793 770401, Wessex Archaeology on 01722 343414 or Wiltshire Wildlife Trust on 01793 526228.