Budding archaeologists hope to discover more of York's hidden history, after a new dig was launched at Museum Gardens.

Trainees from around the world are taking part in Archaeology Live!, run by York Archaeological Trust, at the former St Leonard's Hospital site, in the city centre park.

The Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Chas Hall, today opened the site and met some of the first participants.

Excavation director Kurt Hunter-Mann said: "It is a fantastic opportunity to learn the skills of archaeology and contribute to researching a very interesting site.

"This area has been occupied from the Roman times and trainees on the dig have made some exciting discoveries.

"We have uncovered parts of earlier structures, including more of the Roman defences and a spectacular medieval stone drain."

Anyone interested in taking in the dig, which continues until September 28, can phone York Archaeological Trust on 01904 663029.

Updated: 12:48 Tuesday, July 08, 2003