Roman theme day celebrates National Archaeology Week

GRIMSBY Central Library is celebrating National Archaeology Week with a Roman theme day on Sunday, July 20.

An array of free family entertainment, activities and talks will keep children and adults amused.

From 10.15am to 11.30am children can try their hand at Mini-DIY excavations providing a taster into what it could be like to uncover historical Roman artefacts.

Children can also have a go at recreating a roman mosaic, a craft used extensively in Roman times to decorate walls, floors and pavements.

A Roman children’s board game called Knucklebones can also be tried which is very similar to the one of the first versions of Jacks. Children will also be able to paint their own board game to take home.

From 2pm to 3.30pm Andrew Appels, co-author of Roman Buckles and Military Fittings, will display some of his Roman artefact collection at the library and talk about his passion.

Councillor Steve Hocknell, portfolio holder for culture leisure and healthier communities, said: “This is a fun and enlightening event to get children really thinking about the roman times.

“It is a great privilege to have Andrew Appels involved in this event having had 30 years experience in collecting and studying antiquities.

“He will be on-hand to answer any questions and could even help visitors identify some of their own finds.

“We hope this event will encourage people to learn more about our archaeological heritage and the library is a great place to start.

“You can find an extensive collection of archaeological books at the library and members receive free access to the internet providing an endless supply of information.”

Places are limited on the free children’s activities and parents and guardians are encouraged to book in advance by contacting (01472) 323604.