MORE layers of a village’s history are being peeled away by a time team to reveal a fascinating snapshot of the past.

In the latest Rainford community archaeological dig locally produced 16th and 17th century pottery was discovered in a kiln site, including a number of complete vessels.

The excavation was arranged after a resident in the heart of the village discovered an almost complete 17th century cup, or ‘tyg’, while gardening in 2011.

Following a series of test pits carried out by the Merseyside Archaeological Society and National Museums Liverpool, it was revealed that a deposit of 16th century waste pottery had been dumped there by a local kiln site.

Trenches were opened up to explore the archaeology of the garden and recover more artefacts from site. As well as pottery, the team also discovered the remains of a floor surface to a building or workshop.

Volunteers have been actively engaged in the dig, helping to excavate and wash the finds on site. Around 15 volunteers helped out each week, some completely new to archaeology, with others hoping to refresh their skills. Their thoughts and experiences were recorded on the Rainford’s Roots blog.

“This was a terrific dig and I really enjoyed sharing it with a great bunch of friendly and amusing archaeologists,” one volunteer wrote.

Rainford’s Roots is an in-depth, more detailed project put together by the Merseyside Archaeological Society following the initial success of the excavation.

The project was awarded a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund in September 2012 and will investigate further into the post-mediaeval potting industry that once flourished in Rainford.

Several activities such as processing sessions and summer exhibitions will be taking place over the coming months in response to the latest dig. These will enable the local community to learn about the excavation in detail and look at the results for themselves.