From Adrian Lane, Exeter 383262, July 12, 2007

THOUSANDS of years of years of history will be on display at an archaeological excavation site in Devon on Sunday (15 July).

The free open day at the Mount Folly project at Bigbury-on-Sea will be held from 12pm - 4pm to mark National Archaeology Week. The project is now in its fifth year of exploring two prehistoric and Romano-British settlement enclosure.

Since the site was first discovered through Devon County Council's archaeological aerial survey programme, a wide range of pottery and other occupation evidence has been recorded, including the remains of a roundhouse.

Visitors will be able to see the excavations in progress and the finds that have been recovered. There will also be displays and practical demonstrations based on the history and archaeology of the area, and children can join in activities such as pottery making. Devon County Council's Historic Environment Team will be at the event with a display on the County Historic Environment Record and archaeological aerial survey in South Devon.

Councillor Sheila Hobden, Devon County Council Executive Member for Culture, said: "The open day is a perfect way to mark National Archaeology Week, and this is a great chance for people to see an archaeological excavation in progress. It's a rare opportunity for visitors to find out what interesting artefacts have been discovered so far, and there are plenty of other activities that will bring the site to life."

The event is being generously hosted by Roger Tucker of Mount Folly Farm and is being co-ordinated by the DCC Historic Environment Team and the Devon Archaeological Society, who have supported the project alongside Plymouth and District Archaeological Society, Roman Research Trust and the Bigbury History Society.

Councillor William Mumford, Devon County Councillor for Yealmpton, said: "The project at Mount Folly has unearthed a fascinating period of history in Devon, giving us an insight to the settlements that once existed in the area. And as the site is only a short distance from the sea and beach, so families can make a day of it."

Mount Folly is located approximately 1km from Bigbury-on-Sea, on the B3392 from Bigbury village to Bigbury-on-Sea. The site is located on sloping farmland, so visitors are asked to be prepared to walk and wear appropriate footwear. Cars can be parked on site and entry to the event is free.

Notes for Editors:

For further information contact the Devon County Historic Environment Service on 01392 382246.

E-mail: archaeol@devon.gov.uk. Web: www.devon.gov.uk/archaeology.

The National Grid Reference for Mount Folly is SX 660 446.