HISTORY was unearthed this weekend as enthusiasts armed with spades and trowels dug into Walney's rich heritage.

The Big Dig gave an exciting opportunity for members of the public to get their hands dirty, and learn more about the area's history.

A piece of land near the fire station in Mill Lane has been transformed into a community space thanks to local group Art Gene.

Communal gardens have been planted, and a long-hidden trackway has been uncovered after decades hidden away behind brambles.

Hannah Brackston, from Art Gene said: "We took over this field from the council to establish a community growing space, that's what this whole field is about, from planting trees, building raised flower beds and inviting round archaeologists."

To some it may seem strange an art group is hosting an archaeological dig. Buckets of dirt and scraping the ground on bent knees are not commonly associated with art.


Maddi Nicholson, of Art Gene. However, for Maddi Nicholson, one of the directors at Art Gene, the eclectic nature of the Walney site is what her group is all about.

She said: "Archaeology is about getting a deeper understanding of the area, and share that information back to the people in different ways. It opens up the area to people who have an interest in local history."

She added involving the public with their surroundings is what Art Gene is all about.

There have already been extensive archaeological surveys in north and south Walney, but very little has been done at this location.

A preliminary trench dug in the field uncovered an old trackway that has been dated back to 1850.

Local archaeologist Iain McNicol said: "It's both interesting and annoying, if you don't have the mystery and interest you wouldn't start to dig. The history of the area is well understood in parts, the north and south (of Walney) have had considerable work done, but not so much here, that's why we jumped at the chance."

Underneath the original pathway which connects Mill Lane to a field, the team have found a layer of clinker, the residue from burning coal, but also the suspected remains of an old wall.

Large sandstone and limestone blocks have been found, but why they are there is a mystery.

Karen Mason, another archaeologist said: "We've been looking for something other than a use for access to the fields."


A Victorian half penny found. LINDSEY DICKINGS Some of the finds of the weekend were a large amount of Victorian era pottery and crockery, a halfpenny and a glazed clay marble.

The organisers were thrilled that the event was so well received over the weekend.

Ms Nicholson said: "It's been fantastic, we've had a mass of different people come that we wouldn't usually engage with. We had a family that came all the way up from Bolton.

"It's great for us (Art Gene) and it's been lovely sharing a couple of days with a nice mix of people."

Visit www.art-gene.co.uk for more information about the Big Dig and other Art Gene projects.