A ‘Big Dig’ saw more than 100 people getting stuck in to unearth the history of Wisbech & Fenland Museum’s gardens.

Wisbech Standard: Big Dig Ann HylandBig Dig Ann Hyland (Image: AdGarry Samuels)

The dig, which was free to attend and funded by Heritage Lottery, was part of Wisbech High Street Project’s series of heritage-related activities.

Taleyna Fletcher, Wisbech Townscape Heritage Officer at Fenland District Council, who organised the event, said: “We had about 100 people involved in the actual dig itself, lots of visitors popped into the museum and extra visitors coming to see what we were up to in the garden.

Wisbech Standard: Big Dig Gary MongerBig Dig Gary Monger (Image: AdGarry Samuels)

“It’s the first time there’s been a dig in the museum grounds because we originally wanted to do the dig in the High Street, but unfortunately there wasn’t anywhere safe to do so.”

An Urnes style bronze disc brooch was one of the items that was on display.

Wisbech Standard: An Urnes style bronze disc brooch was on display at the 'Big Dig'.An Urnes style bronze disc brooch was on display at the 'Big Dig'. (Image: Archant)

The brooch, which dates from the 10th/11th century, features an entwined dragon style creature.

It was found during the construction of the museum in 1846 and gifted by Josiah Rumball.

Wisbech Standard: Big Dig Adrian Smart and Josephine FriedBig Dig Adrian Smart and Josephine Fried (Image: AdGarry Samuels)

It would have been used to fasten a cloak or shawl at the neck.

“We’re now planning to hold an event for an investigation and mapping of the tunnels,” she added.

“At the moment we are having a scope around to see where we can go and where is safe to take visitors. We also have a series of ongoing photography workshops taking place. All the events are free.”