A CUMBRIAN MP has welcomed news of a new archaeological dig at one of Cumbria’s most-prominent historical sites.

Penrith and the Borders MP Dr Neil Hudson has praised the partnership of Historic England, Newcastle University and English Heritage following the launch of a major new archaeological excavation at the site of Birdoswald Roman Fort in Cumbria, on Hadrian’s Wall.

Dr Hudson said: “It is great to see a new partnership formed between Historic England, Newcastle University and English Heritage for new excavations at the Birdoswald Roman Fort in Cumbria, on Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site.

“The project will examine the extensive settlement associated with the fort, together with the area immediately to the north of the Wall itself. We have many significant cultural and historical sites in Cumbria and I can’t think of a better site to deliver the best in class archaeological training to the next generation of archaeologists.

“I really look forward to seeing for myself how this exciting dig progresses. With Harrison Ford filming his next Indian Jones movie in the north of England, this dig will hopefully inspire the next generation of famous archaeologists!”