A CLUB launching in the North York Moors National Park will offer eight to 16-year-olds the opportunity to get their hands dirty and learn more about archaeology.

The Moors and Valleys Young Archaeologists’ Club (YAC), opens on Saturday, February 3 and offers visits to archaeological sites, participation in digs and craft and educational activities.

Kim Devereux-West, cultural heritage assistant at the North York Moors National Park Authority, said: “The moors may seem wild and natural, but their appearance is largely the result of human activity and this has left behind an abundance of archaeological evidence for us to find and study.”

“At the Young Archaeologists’ Club, we hope to inspire the next generation to take an interest in the lives and legacies of those who went before them, all while having a great deal of fun!”

While some of the YAC sessions will link to this local history, others will cover topics from different time periods and from all around the world.

The group will be based at The Moors National Park Centre in Danby, but activities will take place across North Yorkshire and Teesside. The club, which is free to attend, will meet on the first Saturday of each month between 11am and1pm.

“For any grown-ups who want to get involved in the fun, we are also looking to expand our team of volunteer leaders,” continues Kim.

“So if you have any archaeological or historical knowledge, please do contact us. We would love to hear from enthusiastic leaders, assistants and guest speakers.”

To book your place, of for more information, please email yac@northyorkmoors.org.uk, or call 01439 772700 and ask for Kim Devereux-West. You can also visit the Moors & Valleys YAC website: www.yac-uk.org/clubs/moors-and-valleys.