Black Death village gets new life

The remains of a 13th century village, which was wiped out by the plague, are being opened up to the public.

People will be able to see more of the earthwork remains of Bleasby, in Lincolnshire, thanks to the work of a local farmer and government funding.

For the past 10 years farmer John Dring has been using DEFRA funding to improve the condition of the manor house and moat remains.

He has now received a second grant to maintain the surrounding areas.

Wildlife benefits

The new parts of the site to be opened up include the mill remains and fishponds.

New footpaths will give people better access to the 26 acre site.

Wildlife will also benefit from the re-planting of hedges and grass margins around arable fields.

It is thought the village of Bleasby, near Market Rasen, was deserted after The Black Death killed most of the inhabitants.