Volunteer Condition Monitoring in Thetford Forest
Thetford Forest contains a large number of archaeological sites, including burial mounds, deserted settlements, rabbit warrens, historic buildings, flint mines and World War Two military remains. Many of the features survive as earthworks, with others known from below-ground remains and surface artefact scatters.
Working in partnership with the Forestry Commission, Suffolk County Council and English Heritage, the Norfolk Monuments Management Project is looking for volunteers who are willing to monitor the condition of earthworks in the forest. If you visit Thetford Forest on a regular basis and are interested in learning more about archaeological sites or if you are keen to become actively involved in archaeology, we are very keen to hear from.
It is hoped taking part in monitoring work will increase volunteers’ interest in, and knowledge of, the archaeology of Thetford Forest. Although volunteers need no previous experience to take part, involvement should help those with existing skills and knowledge build on their earlier experiences.
The Forestry Commission, Norfolk County Council, Suffolk County Council and English Heritage are keen to see the condition of archaeological sites monitored on a regular and systematic basis. Accurate and up-to-date condition information will help Norfolk County Council’s Historic Environment Service, Suffolk County Council’s Archaeological Service and English Heritage collate condition information in Historic Environment Records and make comparisons between site management within and outside Thetford Forest.
Training Events
If you are interested in volunteering, visiting and recording the condition of earthworks in Thetford Forest, the project will be holding a training event at Oak Lodge at High Lodge Forest Centre (Santon Downham) on Saturday 29 June 2012. This will involve a morning session indoors, followed by a guided tour of archaeological sites in the afternoon.
Although the event is free to take part in, places will need to be booked in advance. For more information or to book a place on the training courses, please contact 01362 860528 or historicenvironment@norfolk.gov.uk.
Volunteer condition monitoring documents
The following documents can be used in condition monitoring by trained volunteers.