Artefacts dating back to 900BC could be dug up when archaeologists start exploring farmland in East Sussex.

Up to 15 people will excavate a small plot of land in Eastbourne in September looking for evidence of Roman or medieval occupation.

Permission has been given by the farmer landowner to hand-dig the two-trench site off King's Drive, near Eastbourne District General Hospital.

The excavation, expected to last three weeks, could uncover more evidence of Eastbourne's history.

In the early Nineties a dig took place nearby and Roman and medieval material was found, including prehistoric pottery and Bronze Age flintwork.

Historians from the 100-strong Eastbourne Natural History and Archaeological Society hope similar finds will surface in the autumn.

Society secretary Robin Reffell said: "We will be looking at this area for about three weeks in September to see if we can add anything to our knowledge of Roman occupation.

"The hard work begins as we try to get support because we will have to carry out this project on a shoestring budget. It is an opportunity to expand our knowledge of an extremely rich historical area."

A meeting to discuss the dig was held on Friday at the WRVS Centre in Hyde Road, Eastbourne. For more details, call Robin Reffell on 01323 648226.