FINDS dating back to medieval and Roman times were dug up during a community archaeology project near York’s Guildhall.

Volunteers of all ages took part in the two-week summer dig on the site of a medieval friary, helped by the AOC Archaeology Group.

They uncovered vast numbers of finds dating from the Roman period through to the Second World War, said City of York Council, which supported the dig.

“These included finely-carved pieces of medieval window surround – hinting at what might survive of the medieval friary buildings that occupied the site – as well a beautiful wall plaster decorated with floral motives and animals,” said a spokeswoman.

She said two sections of wall uncovered may represent the walls of the friary buildings, and it is hoped further work will reveal more of the lost medieval buildings.

Mitchell Pollington, of AOC, said he was overwhelmed by the public response to the dig.

“We always thought there would be a great deal of interest in this site, but we couldn’t have anticipated the numbers of people that wanted to get involved,” he said.

“The enthusiasm and hard work of the volunteers has been amazing, and many of them could easily go on to a career in archaeology.”

Volunteers included members of the Young Archaeologists’ Club, who took over the site for one day. Tara-Jane Sutcliffe of the club said: “The children especially had a wonderful time.”

Councillor Sonja Crisp, council cabinet member for culture, said the dig provided a unique chance to gain a better understanding of the area.

Those who missed out on the dig can help with processing finds, firstly by cleaning, identifying and cataloguing material. Details will soon be available at www.aocarchaeology.com/hiddenguildhall