Roman site unearthed in Doune

Feb 22 2008 By Stephanie Black, Stirling Observer

DOUNE Primary School pupils have been discovering the hidden treasures of ancient Rome — right in the middle of their playground.

A new classroom is currently being built at Doune and because the site is home to a former Roman fort, professional archaeologists have been called in — just in case there are any historical artefacts uncovered.

Head teacher Jane McManus told the Stirling Observer: “The children have truly enjoyed this experience and have been asking the archaeologists lots of interesting questions.”

The three archaeologists from Headland Archeology have found simple pottery items and clay slingshots to the actual placement of the foundations of the Roman Fort.

Each class has been given a tour of the excavation site by the archaeologists and have been given in depth insight into the discoveries made.

“They’ve been delighted with what they’ve found so far,” added Mrs McManus.

This is not the first excavation to take place at Doune Primary School. Eight years ago a similar excavation took place in preparation for the new nursery.

The pieces found will now be taken back with the archaeologists and examined further with a report to be written on all items discovered at the Roman site.