INQUISITIVE children became young archeologists at Runcorn’s Norton Priory Museum.

More than 450 visitors came to the ancient ruins to join the ‘dig detective’ two day half term event.

Susan Humphreys, learning and community Manager at Norton Priory, said: “Our mini dig was really popular and it was brilliant seeing the children’s faces when they dug up a ‘skeleton’, pottery and coins.

“The classroom was turned into a laboratory thanks to Ormiston Bolingbroke Academy who very kindly loaned us white coats, goggles and chemistry equipment.

“Children from aged three and upwards enjoyed performing colour change experiments and testing soils. It’s nice to think we might have inspired future archaeologists and scientists.”

Youngsters painted clay pots to take home.

Visit nortonpriory.org for details of forthcoming events.