ROMAN coins, prehistoric copper mining and The First World War feature in a popular archaeology event which returns on Saturday.

The Cheshire Archaeology Day takes place at Winsford Lifestyle Centre, and offers residents the chance to learn more about the rich history of their area.

This year’s event takes in the archaeological site at Heronbridge near Chester, where excavations have revealed a story of Roman settlement, Anglo-Saxon fortification and a battle cemetery.

Other presentations will cover the archaeology and landscape of Alderley Edge, from prehistoric copper mining to the present day, the discovery of a hoard of Roman silver coins, brooches and rings from Knutsford and recent work on the industrial archaeology of Cheshire.

To mark commemorations for the centenary of the outbreak of The First World War there will be a talk about the archaeology of the training camps, practice trenches and a model of a section of The Western Front, which all survive on Cannock Chase.

The popular annual event regularly attracts between 300 and 400 people, and will include presentations from experts and displays from local societies and museums, as well as book stalls.

“The day attracts a wide range of people, from historians to those with an informal interest in local history,” said Cheshire West and Chester Clr Hilarie McNae.

“It is a great day out with lots to offer, including the chance to view precious artefacts and discover more about the fascinating history of our area.”

The day is organised by archaeologists at Cheshire West and Chester Council, and supported by the Chester Archaeological Society, Cheshire Local History Association and Middlewich Town Council.

Clr David Armstrong said the Cheshire Archaeology Day was in its 21st year, and it remained as popular as ever.

“It’s a great opportunity to catch up with what has been going on in local archaeological research and conservation over the past year, learn more about local sites of interest and to meet like-minded people,” he said.

Tickets cost £12, and £10 for concessions. Booking forms are available from libraries, museums and the council’s website at cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.