A NEWLY designed course focusing on local archaeology is calling out for Bridgwater residents to sign up and take part.

The Beginning in Local Archaeology course has been designed by Dr Chris Norman to appeal to all adults with a general interest in local prehistoric and Roman archaeology.

It will introduce basic practical skills and background knowledge as well as providing a starting point for those wising to take up fieldwalking as a hobby.

The course will cover a variety of topics including locating new sites using maps and photographs, identifying artefacts and the recording of finds.

Much time will be devoted to handling original material, including collections of local air photograph scans, prehistoric flint tools and pottery of Iron Age and Roman ages.

David Baker, chairman of the Bridgwater and District Archaeological Society, said: "If you are interested in hands-on archaeology, we are hoping to develop more opportunities for research and field walking in the area and this course is an ideal introduction.

"The course has been designed particularly to appeal to all adults with a general interest of local archaeology and we would love to see people take part."There are limited spaces available, 20 maximum, and there has been interest expressed already.

The course fee is fixed on £37 for seven sessions between Wednesday, April 9 and Wednesday, May 21. All sessions are held at the Blake Museum between 7pm - 9pm and prior booking advised.

For further information on course arrangements and bookings, please contact Mr David Baker on 01278-424933 or the tutor on 01278-663513 (evenings). Booking forms can also be obtained from the reception desk at the Blake Museum.