Residents were invited to learn more about the rich history of their local area when Cheshire Archaeology Day returned last weekend.

The popular annual event – which regularly attracts 300-400 people - took place at Winsford Lifestyle Centre on Saturday, where visitors had the chance to view artefacts and learn about recent archaeological discoveries.

The day included fascinating presentations from experts and displays from local societies and museums, as well as book stalls.

Organised by archaeologists at Cheshire West and Chester Council, the event was supported by the Chester Archaeological Society, the Cheshire Local History Association and Middlewich Town Council.

Burials discovered during excavations at Heronbridge, near Chester

Cllr Hilarie McNae, heritage champion for Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “Cheshire Archaeology Day is a popular event which attracts a wide range of people, from historians to those with an informal interest in local history.

“It is a great day out with lots to offer, including the chance to view precious artefacts and discover more about the fascinating history of our local area.”

Sites highlighted in this year’s programme included the rich archaeological site at Heronbridge, near Chester, where excavations have revealed a story of Roman settlement, Anglo-Saxon fortification and a battle cemetery.

Other presentations covered the archaeology and landscape of Alderley Edge from prehistoric copper mining to the present day; the discovery of a hoard of Roman silver coins, brooches and rings from Knutsford; and recent work on the industrial archaeology of Cheshire.

To mark the commemorations of the 100th anniversary of the First World War, there was also a talk about the archaeology of the training camps, practice trenches and a model of a section of the Western Front, which all survive on Cannock Chase.

Cllr David Armstrong said: “We are now in the 21st year of Cheshire Archaeology Day and it remains as popular as ever.

“It is a great opportunity to catch up with what has been going on in local archaeological research and conservation over the past year, learn more about local sites of interest and meet like-minded people.”