BUDDING archaeologists across Worcestershire will be given the chance to learn more about the past thanks to a new club.

From later this month, the Worcestershire Young Archaeologists Club (YAC) will give children aged from nine to 16 hands-on experience of bygone ages.

Once the club is launched at Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings on Sunday, November 23, the youngsters will enjoy practical work including washing and marking finds, surveying old sites and even real excavation.

A busy calendar of events includes visits to a Roman villa in Chedworth, Iron Age hillforts and deserted mediaeval villages.

Activity sessions will be held at Bordesley Abbey and the County Museum in Hartlebury. The club has been put together by archaeologists from the Worcestershire County Council historic environment and archaeological service, who believe the subject has great appeal amongst the population.

"Archaeology is becoming ever more popular with both adults and children," said Worcestershire County Council's archaeology officer Malcolm Atkin.

"But until now it has been very difficult for children to get involved with their local archaeological heritage and to learn archaeological techniques.

"We are therefore delighted to support this exciting new branch of the YAC."

Youngsters will be able to learn more at Avoncroft, in Stoke Heath, near Bromsgrove, between 1pm and 4pm. To find out more people can call Deborah Overton on 01905 855494.