County Durham Community Foundation 
An archaeological project has been awarded funding to extend investigations into a deserted medieval settlement.
The project will combine excavation work with a new arts scheme thanks to funding from the Northern Heartlands Community Initiative, managed by County Durham Community Foundation.
Findings at the Well Head settlement in Holwick, Teesdale, will be complemented by film-making, oral history, art work and creative writing.
The project was prompted by interest from the local community.
An Altogether Archaeology spokesperson said: “We have been amazed by the response of the local community and by the wealth of personal stories, memories and family legends we uncovered alongside the remains of the medieval village.
“Our aim is to tap into and record all of that to create a Holwick archive and to encourage people to develop their own creative work inspired by the site.
“We want to encourage people to come to the open days and share their experiences and reminiscence. We also want adults to engage with sketching and painting at the site.”
The Altogether Archaeology group is a community group which works to promote awareness of the archaeological heritage of the North Pennines and surrounding areas.
It provides opportunities for members to extend their knowledge of archaeological methods and practice by research, fieldwork and training.
Beginners will work with professional archaeologists and other partners at the site to develop a fuller understanding of the rich and diverse heritage of the area.
The area is one of several deserted medieval sites located along the southern edge of the Teesdale valley floor.
Primary school children will take part in the project by creating their own stories about the treasure found.
The team will also work with Lonely Tower filmmakers who will document the excavation and the creative work to produce two short films.
Writer, audio producer and oral historian Rachel Cochrane will be talking to visitors and the archaeologists to record their thoughts about the site.
The 2019 excavation will take place from May 11.
Volunteers will be supervised by a professional archaeologist to ensure that the highest standards are met. Members of the community do need to join the of Altogether Archaeology to participate in the dig.
