Historical digs at Rushen Abbey

Archaeologists say they have had a number of exciting finds

Archaeologists are planning a new series of digs at Rushen Abbey on the Isle of Man.

The 11-week project, which runs through to the end of summer, is being carried out by Manx National Heritage.

It is hoped the excavations will help uncover more history about the abbey, which dates back to medieval times.

The work will concentrate around the heart of the abbey complex, long regarded as one of the most important Christian sites on the island.

Excavations have been carried out since 1997 on various areas of the site to help clarify the history of the abbey.

French pottery

Allison Fox, Curator of Archaeology for Manx National Heritage, said: "In previous years we've had lots of exciting finds such as medieval writing implements and French pottery.

"The excavation area at the abbey was covered over at the end of last year's dig to protect the exposed remains of walls and ancient ground surfaces during the winter.

"The excavation area will be extended this year to help us build up a picture of the relationship between the different buildings and we're hoping to find much more evidence of medieval life at the abbey."

Work will be carried out by staff from the Centre for Manx Studies, local volunteers and students from the University of Liverpool.

The site is open from 1000 BST to 1700 BST until October and in July volunteer guides from the Friends of Manx National Heritage will be on hand to explain the latest archaeological discoveries.