A COMMUNITY archaeology team may have found a previously unknown prehistoric settlement in northern Scotland.

The discovery emerged when people in and around Thurso were invited to take part in a hands-on archaeology event that formed part of the Caithness Broch Festival.

More than 40 attended and were trained in basic archaeological techniques by archaeologists from Orkney Research Centre for Archaeology (Orca) and the University of the Highlands and Islands.

A series of trial trenches were dug at Thusater Burn near Thurso and a number of items unearthed, including a hammer stone and possible striking stone used for starting fires –and a perfectly preserved hearth consisting of an upright stone, a base slab and packing stones.

The investigation raised the possibility of the mound containing prehistoric structural remains, although more research is needed to confirm their extent and date. The hearth, together with the other finds, points to domestic use – such as a structure known as a wag or, even more excitingly for the Caithness Broch Project, the remains of a broch.

Pete Higgins, senior project manager at Orca, said: “It is incredibly exciting to be involved with the team from Caithness Broch Project and local people investigating this site, especially as this is the first time it has been excavated.

“This is the first stage of a project which aims to investigate the wider prehistoric landscape of this area and ultimately help provide the community with the tools to boost tourism in the area.”

Caithness Broch Project member Kenneth McElroy added: “The dig was a really exciting community event and for many of the volunteers their first experience of an archaeological dig. It was a superb few days and we’d love to come back and try and find out a bit more about the site.”

Photograph: Orkney Research Centre for Archaeology