Garden digs to find hidden Leicestershire history

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Archaeologists and volunteers will begin a series of digs in gardens and public spaces this weekend in bid to find historic artefacts in Charnwood Forest. The digs are being led by Prof Carenza Lewis, from the University of Lincoln, in collaboration with University of Leicester Archaeological Services (ULAS) and Charnwood Forest Geopark. Dozens of "test pits" will be dug in Newtown Linford on 2 and 3 May, Stanton-Under-Bardon on 16 and 17 May, and Woodhouse and Woodhouse Eaves on 4 and 5 July. Previous digs in Rothley, Anstey, and Whitwick uncovered pottery and flint tools, ULAS said. BBC Leicester's Ben Jackson spoke to Matthew Morris from the University of Leicester's Archaeological Services, and Jim Butler, Public Engagaement Co-ordinator for Charnwood Forest Geoparx. Image: Supplied