Are you looking for a fun activity that all the family can take part in? If so, come along to Ballymoney Town Hall on Saturday 6th June where you can find out what it’s really like to be an archaeologist- and it’s all free!

The event has been organised as part of the Northern Ireland Environment Agency’s scheme, ‘Archaeology Days’, which aims to get people out and about across Northern Ireland and enjoying our rich local archaeology.

What is archaeology? What is it like to work as an archaeologist? Join Johanna Vuolteenaho, a Finnish archaeologist who has excavated across the world to find out the answers to these questions, which Ballymoney Museum is perfectly placed to do. Having recently reopened to the public following a £400,000 refurbishment, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the museum holds an abundance of archaeological material, much of which has never been seen by the public before. From Stone Age tools and Bronze Age treasures to beautifully crafted and rare medieval artefacts, the museum's archaeological collection is now recognised as 'of national importance'. The most outstanding of these ancient artefacts is the Derrykeighan Stone.  The beautiful design which was engraved on the stone 2,000 years ago is now used as the museum's logo.

Using Ballymoney Museum’s diverse collection, Johanna will explore the exciting field of archaeology.  The day will include lots of hands-on activities suitable for all members of the family. Learn how to be an archaeologist by taking part in a fun excavation activity and how to identify stone tools. The event will also include a flint knapping demonstration, an essential skill for any Stone Age hunter!

Sessions will begin at 1pm and 3pm. Admission is free but booking is essential for participation in workshops.

To book a place contact the Tourist Information Office at Ballymoney Town Hall on 028 2766 0230 or Email: museum@ballymoney.gov.uk

Museum opening hours: Monday-Thursday & Saturday 9am-5pm, Friday 9am-4.30pm. For further information, please see www.visitballymoney.com  Ballymoney Borough Council is a member of the Causeway Museum Service.