Frome Valley Archaeology

This project started at the end of March 2004 and incorporated the technical aspects of archaeology with a large amount of community involvement, therefore giving members of the public a chance to learn skills and gain knowledge through practical means.

The main purpose of the project was to improve the understanding and appreciation of the historic landscape and archaeology of this area. The aim was to do this with the help of local residents and landowners, through the documentation and analysis of the landscape through the last 10,000 years, and by sharing the insights found with the wider community.

Based around the Frome Valley, the project was co-ordinated with Bromyard & District Local History Society. Many events took place, from talks in village halls and Bromyard, to on-site training days in field archaeology.

The community engagement with the project was substantial, including attendance levels at the open events. Other elements that the community fully involved themselves were:

• Conservation ground-works
• Standing buildings surveys
• Heritage attitudes survey
• Full training in these areas to carry out the tasks

The final public event, Discovery Day, featured talks on all aspects of the project and presented a summary of the undertaking. A book is due to be published providing information on the Frome Valley and the finds of the archaeological surveys and the landscape changes. During 2005, there was an exhibition highlighting the project's discoveries at the B&DLHS heritage centre in Bromyard.

Dr Keith Ray
County Archaeologist
Herefordshire Council
PO Box 144
Hereford
HR1 2YH
Tel: (01432) 383351
Fax: (01432) 383354
Email: kray@herefordshire.gov.uk