An archaeology field school has opened its doors and trenches on the ruins of a famous medieval abbey near Aberystwyth for the first time this summer.

The school will run until 16 September at the 12th century Strata Florida Abbey, a captivating, evocative and internationally significant site in Pontrhydfendigaid.

This is a unique opportunity for people both young and old, from different backgrounds, with and without experience of archaeology, to take part in all aspects of an archaeological excavation at this important historical site.

The new field school builds on established archaeological training programmes conducted at Strata Florida between 2004 and 2015.

The field school is being delivered by the Strata Florida Trust in partnership with The Prince’s Foundation, Allchurches Trust, University of Wales Trinity St David, Breaking Ground Heritage and Sacred Landscapes Research Project.

Allchurches Trust has given £177,400 over three years to fund the field school during the summers of 2019 to 2021.

Allchurches Trust is one of the UK’s largest grant-making charities and gave more than £16m to churches, charities and communities in 2018.

“We are extremely grateful to Allchurches Trust for their very generous grant,” said Prof David Austin, director of the Strata Florida Archaeology Field School.

“It means we can fulfil our wish to share Strata Florida’s very special history, archaeology, heritage and links to Welsh culture with as many people as possible, including members of the public, students, veterans and experienced archaeologists.”

See this week’s south papers for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition now