MOVES to uncover the origins of an ancient Golden Valley priory have resumed as part two of an archaeology project got underway.

The Ewyas Harold Archaeology and History Group started work last weekend after a gravel bank and 15th century pavement were uncovered last year.

Members believe a priory was established in 1130 in a field just north of Ewyas Harold when it was moved from nearby Dulas Court.

But research indicates the now redundant St Michael’s Church in the village could also be the original site.

In addition, thoughts the building was abandoned in 1358 have also been contradicted by archaeological evidence which suggests occupation in the Ewyas priory field continued for another century.

Andy Boucher, from Headland Archaeology, said: “The project presents a great opportunity to compare a wealth of documentary references with what is actually on the ground. It is like one big puzzle, and hopefully a lot of local people will get involved helping us solve it.”

Headland is providing guidance as it investigates the connection between the Dulas and Ewyas Harold sites.

Meanwhile the project also includes a pioneering new method of identifying masonry that might have derived from the original priory using a rock susceptibility meter.