An archaeological project which has captured the imagination of the community at Cromarty on the Black Isle has been given a £60,200 cash boost.
Discovered almost by accident in December 2012, after storms and high tides washed away part of the shoreline, local volunteers have given up hours of their time to progress the project.
Further advances will now be possible after the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) awarded the funding to the Cromarty Medieval Burgh Community Archaeology Project.
People of all ages have been working throughout the summer at the site, in Reeds Park, as more evidence of medieval and post-medieval deposits are found.
The ultimate aim of the project is to discover the layout of the original town, which dates back to around 1266, as well as early trade and commerce artefacts.
Today’s resident’s have joined forces with professional archaeologists and historians who have provided practical training in finding and identifying relevant items.
Project chairman, Steven Birch, said: “The grant has made it possible for us to provide a range of community-based events and training to the children, young people and adults of Cromarty as we investigate the archaeology of such an important site.
“Amazingly, the excavation site has remained undeveloped since the late 1800s and is the perfect location for a community archaeological project, on the shoreline of one of Scotland’s best known historical towns.”
More people will be brought on board and receive expert advice thanks to the HLF cash, which will finance training events, including desk based sessions on research, photography and interpretation.