The Bishop Big Dig : Test pitting in Bishop Auckland 2022 [dataset]

This report presents the results of a programme of test-pitting in Bishop Auckland, a medium sized market town in County Durham. A total of 107 1m2 test pits were dug between January and December 2022. The project was funded by the ESRC and by Durham University’s Research Impact Fund. Students from King James I Academy (13-14yrs old), University of Durham students and local volunteers all took part. The aim of the project was in part archaeological - an exercise in conducting urban contemporary archaeology - and in part a community undertaking designed to enhance ‘cultural capital’ through engagement with local history and archaeological skills.