ARTEFACTS buried beneath York for centuries have been unearthed at the site of a huge regeneration project.

Victorian mugs, Roman roof tiles and an inscribed brick from the Industrial Revolution have all gone on display after they were found by York Archaeological Trust in Hungate.

All of the items were discovered during work at the site, where one, two and three-bedroom homes are being built.

The exhibition includes the remains of two Roman roof tiles - known as a tegula - with the different examples found including one stamped by the Sixth Legion, which occupied York from 120AD until 400AD and another featuring a paw print.

There are also Victorian apothecary and ointment jars, used to store cosmetics and treatments.

As well as Viking ice skates made from bone, one of the more light-hearted discoveries includes a brick from the Industrial Revolution, daubed with graffiti.

The inscription, which survived having been etched into the brick, dubs a Yorkshire gentleman “a silly fool”.

Richard Cook, head of Lendlease Residential, said: “These artefacts tell the story of the thousands of years of rich history for which York is famed, on what has been for many years a desolate site.

“We are thrilled to be able to showcase the York Archaeological Trust’s findings with the local community, as it is their story and their history to tell, and we look forward to being a part of the city of York’s future at Hungate.

“There is so much to be told in this one part of the city – we feel very privileged to be able to bring this story to the public and offer a glimpse into the previous incarnations of this area, which has remained overlooked for so long.”

Established on one of the last remaining brownfield locations within the city walls, Hungate is introducing 1,025 new homes and creating a major new riverside community.

More than an acre and a half of new public open space will be created, including a viewing platform for the carefully protected nature reserve neighbouring the development.

The exhibition will be on display at Hungate’s sales and marketing suite, off The Stonebow, until Christmas.

It can be visited from Monday to Friday, from 10am to 5.30pm or Saturday and Sunday, from 10am to 4pm.