Stars of Norfolk and Waveney Awards – December 2017
Peter and the Aylsham Roman Project were finalists in the Community Group or Champion of the Year Group at the Stars of Norfolk and Waveney Awards. The awards night was held at St Andrews Church in Norwich on Wednesday 6th December. Nick Conrad, the compere gave us a good promotion, following his visit to us in the summer. The only bemusing part was why Martin’s photo appeared in the brochure and on the big screen instead of Peter’s, especially after he had sent ones in. Not a bad way to end the year, though!
Since 2016, more than 200 people of all ages have participated in an archeaological community dig to develop an understanding of the history of Aylsham with the Aylsham Roman Project. Finds indicate almost 10 000 years of continuous settlement. Set up by land owner Peter Purdy, his foresight, generosity and desire to explore and share the history of his land, has kindled lasting friendships, developed understanding of archeaology, brought great enjoyment and allowed amateurs to work alongside professionals in relaxed and infgormal surroundings.
Broadland Community At Heart Awards – October 2017
At the Broadland Community at Heart Awards 2017 held on Thursday 12th October 2017 at The Space, Norwich, Peter and Woodgate Nursery won the award for Business Community Supporter of the Year. The award was given for involving the community in the Aylsham Roman Project, working with schools throughout the year and the annual garden show which has raised thousands of pounds for local charities and good causes.
Marsh Award for Community Archaeology – November 2016
On Monday November 7th 2016 Peter, Catherine, Teresa from Woodgate and Martin and Dan from Britannia Archaeology went to the British Academy on the Mall to receive the Marsh Award for community Archaeology, an award that recognises and rewards work led by community groups. Not only did they come away with a certificate but also a cheque for £1000.
“The project has been the friendliest and most inclusive of excavations, and the enthusiasm of everyone involved has been overwhelming. Despite the huge number of volunteers who were new to archaeology, the work has been carried out to an extremely high standard, and everyone has gained new archaeological knowledge. A huge number of people have been positively affected by the experience, and cannot wait to come back next year.”
For news of all this year’s winners, and the full citation for the Aylsham Roman Project, go to the Council for British Archaeology website.
A report can also be found on page 63 of the January/February 2017 magazine British Archaeology produced by the Council for British Archaeology.