A team of archaeologists have returned to the island to continue their study of a Bronze Age site, following their success last year.

The team of 28 archaeologists are continuing their excavation of an ancient burial mound off the coast road between Peel and Kirk Michael.

One of the project leaders, Dr Rachael Crellin, said: ’This year we are doubling the length of our excavation season and we can’t wait to get our trowels back out and see what can be revealed.’

The burial site is one of many located across the island. It has been the focus of archaeological study since 2016.

Of the 160 burial mounds in the Isle of Man, only a few have been excavated using techniques that have left a detailed and reliable record.

Joint leader of the project alongside Dr Crellin is Dr Chris Fowler of Newcastle University .

Dr Crellin, from the University of Leicester’s school or archaeology and ancient history, said: ’Round mounds were built sporadically during the Neolithic period and in large numbers during the Early Bronze Age.

’The project is investigating what these sites and their associated burials and artefacts can tell us about life on the Isle of Man during these periods, but also about interaction with other communities across Britain, Ireland and potentially beyond.’

She added: ’Last year we were lucky enough to find our first burial within the mound, a cremation buried in a pottery vessel in a small cist.

’Analysis over the winter has revealed that the burial was of a young child who was sadly under two years old when they died.’

Their four-week visit continues until July 20.

Volunteers and people with an interest in the subject are invited to join the dig and have a go at being an archaeologist.

Full training will be provided to volunteers.

Dr Crellin said: ’Whether you’d like to take part for a day or the whole dig, you will be made very welcome.’

The team are also offering guided tours around the site, from July 8 to July 12 and then July 15 to 18.

Events will also be held with schools.

Anyone interested in going on a tour of the site is asked to book in advance as there are limited tickets available.

Students from the Universities of Newcastle and Leicester are taking part as part of their degree studies.

Many of the students also took part last year.

The Steam Packet has helped with the travel costs of the project.

Steam Packet chief executive Mark Woodward said: ’This is important research so when the team approached us to support a second year of the project we were pleased to help.

’It is particularly encouraging that there will be further opportunities for the community to find out more about the island’s history.’

The project is also funded and supported by Manx National Heritage and the Universities of Leicester and Newcastle.

Find out more and follow updates at roundmounds.wordpress.com/ or via twitter: @archaeojapery

To book a site tour or to find out about volunteering, send an email to: [email protected]