Archaeology is not just a matter of digging holes, as Hartlebury WI discovered at their February meeting. Archaeologists Richard Bradley and Lara Bishop explained, and illustrated, the differences between commercial and research projects. Commercial archaeology, which is Richard’s field, relates to sites where development is taking place and there is a need to explore the area for possible ancient sites before the builder’s move in.

The findings are then recorded and photographed before the concrete is poured over the site.

This happened before the Hive was built in Worcester and many of the local find - ings are stored there.

Lara, a research archaeologist, took us through the history of archaeology beginning with the site at Avebury, Wilts, where people such as John Aubrey and General Pit Rivers investigated the site in the 17th and 18th century.

Research projects are undertaken with archaeologists and volunteers which can result in exciting findings such as a bronze age stone circle burial site. But first you have to find a site.

Members were able to handle small items of beautifully made Roman pottery together with pieces of iron found in Worcester which, it appears, was a cen - tre for iron smelting.

A fascinating evening.

Plans for an anniversary garden, a joint venture with the gardening club, can now continue as the site near the parish hall has now been cleared.

It will contain flowering shrubs to give interest throughout the year.

The WI nationally will be celebrating 100 years in 2015.

A baton is to be passed to every WI and will be in the Hartlebury area on Sunday, September 14.

Members are to visit the Birmingham Back to Back houses on Saturday, March 22 and on Friday, April 4 they have been given special permission to visit the Archaeology department in the Hive, Worcester. A day visit to Pembridge Mill Water Gardens and Girgin Farm, Red Kite feeding station is to take place on May 17.

Non-members are welcome, contact Dawn Bradley on 01299 250532 The next meeting is on March 12 at 7.30 when Eira Walters will be demonstrating peg loom weaving.