ARCHAEOLOGICAL investigation work starts tomorrow on the mound of Clifford's Tower - just as its famous daffodils are preparing to bloom.

The work, which will continue until March 11, is part of the first phase of work being carried out by English Heritage to understand the archaeology and make-up of the historic York tower and especially its earth mound.

This is part of a long-term conservation project and planning for the future of the tower.

The organisation said it was not possible to undertake the work in January, when the focus was on the interior of the tower and the historic site was closed to accommodate the necessary work.

A spokesman said: "The external work, which will include taking earth samples, will provide vital information on the structure and stability of the mound, which is believed to be strong.

" Analysis of both stages of work will continue into spring, when a full report will be made of the findings. "The tower will remain open and since the work is concentrated on the outside slopes of the mound, we hope that there will be minimal intrusion to visits throughout.

"To enable this important work to take place, three narrow strips of the mound will be disturbed during the digging.

"Ahead of the work beginning, our estate landscape manager and his team will carefully remove the daffodils in those planned strips.

"Each clump of daffodils will be stored with its turf and soil in a shady and protected location before being replanted as soon as possible following completion of each stage of the work.

"We know how important the daffodils are to the history and visual attraction of Clifford’s Tower and would like to emphasise our commitment to preserve them and restore the mound to its full glory once the work has been completed."