PUPILS unearthed the secrets of the past when they took part in an archeological dig on a medieval site.

Children from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School in Sheepridge were joined by Ashbrow Junior School pupils and youngsters from Fieldhead Junior and Infant School in Birstall on the three-day dig at Oakwell Hall.

Youngsters got the chance to explore the rich heritage of the site though a variety of activities including excavation and finds handling.

The house was built in 1583 but the site dates back to medieval times.

Graham Hebblethwaite, chief officer of West Yorkshire Joint Services, said:“Practical activities provide the best way of getting children interested in history.

“Recovering objects from the ground and handling artifacts from the council’s collection provides children with a unique experience and they are literally being put in touch with the past.”

The event was run by West Yorkshire Archeology Advisory Service and Kirklees Council.