Ref: PR1935
Date: 30/09/08

The exciting new discovery of a medieval kiln will see visitors to Pontefract Museum whisked back in time as experts lead a free talk on the find.

The public will be given the chance to ask some burning questions about various pottery finds made from around the kiln site.

The free talk is on October 2, starting at 7.30pm, and it will also mark the start of a chance for the public to lend a hand to help investigate the pottery - giving people the opportunity to take on the role of an archaeologist.

Cllr Denise Jeffery, Wakefield Council's deputy leader and cabinet member for culture, said: "Whenever an important discovery is made, our museum experts are always more than happy to share these wonderful finds with the public.

"Local discoveries are part of our district's heritage and should be cherished - I for one find these events very exciting and hope that other visitors to the museum do too."

The kiln was found earlier this year by archaeologists from Archaeological Services, WYAS, at Simpsons Malt, on Ferrybridge Road, where new homes are being built by Rippon Homes.

It was full of a yellow glazed pottery called Stamford Ware. This kind of pottery was made in Britain between the 9th century and the 12th century.

Ian Roberts, principal archaeologist with Archaeological Services, WYAS, said: "It is called Stamford Ware because archaeologists always thought this was only made in Stamford, Lincolnshire, so this is an exciting find which highlights Pontefract's importance. It also changes our previous theories about medieval trade and distribution."

English Heritage will be funding the specialist work to research this unexpected find, but with 25,000 fragments of pottery to wash and mark, their funding will not cover all the work. So volunteers will have the opportunity to spend one or more evenings this autumn at Pontefract Museum, helping with the preparation of the pottery so it can be assessed further.

Cllr Jeffery added: "Volunteers will also have the chance to learn some new skills as well as investigate these amazing discoveries.

"At one session, a historic potter will be on hand to copy the medieval pots. The medieval pottery specialist will come and teach about medieval pottery and there will be an opportunity to learn how archaeologists draw pottery."

Anyone can join in with the discovery process and no experience is required.

For more information either come along to the talk, contact Pontefract Museum on 01977 722744, or Pam Judkins on 01924 305352 or email pjudkins@wakefield.gov.uk

ENDS