Enthusiasts dig for canal history

Stourport owes its origins to its canal

Volunteers are starting an exploration into one of Worcestershire's historic canal sites.

The gardens of the old Tontine Hotel in Stourport and a nearby tollhouse for canal boats have remained undisturbed for about 200 years.

Townsfolk are joining a six-day training dig where they will uncover information about the canal basin as well as learn excavation techniques.

The dig is being led by experts from Worcestershire County Council.

The project is supported by British Waterways. Project manager Alexandra Ball said Stourport was one of few towns in England which owes its origins to the canal age.

"We are expecting to find out new and unknown things about the basins and their history," she said.