Lottery funds to help kick off new excavations at site

EXCAVATIONS are to resume at one of Tyneside’ most historic sites.

- TONY HENDERSON

The monastery at Jarrow was one of Europe's most influential centres of learning and culture in the Seventh century and home to the Venerable Bede, who is buried in Durham Cathedral

From 1959 to 1978, Durham University’s Anglo-Saxon expert Professor Rosemary Cramp excavated at the twin monastery site of Jarrow-Wearmouth, with another dig taking place in 1984.

The team discovered remains of the Seventh and Eighth-century building at Jarrow, which are under the care of English Heritage.

Now Jarrow Hall Anglo-Saxon Farm, Village and Bede Museum has been awarded £249,188 by The National Lottery Heritage Fund to open excavations in Drewett's Park adjacent to St Paul's Church.

Past scans have indicated an area of interest at the park, and Northumbria University plans a new survey with ground penetrating radar in June. The project will also involve Durham and Newcastle universities.

The funding will pay for the first phase of the investigation, starting this summer, with hopes for a second next year.

Phase one will create opportunities for local residents and school children to be involved in archaeology.