The Big Dig – Lochore Castle officially began on Wednesday, with the first turfs being cut by Anne Hay and Mary Clarke, of the Benarty Heritage Preservation Group.

And today (Saturday) the Big Dig open day takes place at the Meedies.

Anne commented, “The start of the dig has been long awaited, the feeling of anticipation has been building as today drew closer.

“I hope we uncover many artefacts that help explain the history of Lochore Castle.’ The Big Dig is scheduled to take place from the 12th to 30th August, within Lochore Meadows Country Park.

The Living Lomonds team, with help from archaeologists at OJT Heritage and community volunteers, are searching for artefacts and structures, which will help explain the hidden history of the Castle and the knights who once lived here.

It is hoped that evidence may be uncovered that shows the site was occupied even before the Castle was built.

Historic Scotland has given the Living Lomonds permission to excavate three trenches.

The Island Trench, located over a collapsed section of the courtyard wall around the keep, the Tower Trench situated over the defensive round tower, and the Harbour Trench which aims to uncover a possible harbour.

The Big Dig is the key next stage of the restoration of Lochore Castle project.

Last autumn teams of volunteers cleared heavy undergrowth from the castle remains and it revealed a striking structure.

Ultimately it is hoped to create a piece of Benarty history which will be open to the public with a precis of its history set in a special display cabinet and perhaps one day the structure will be floodlit.

To find out more about the dig, visit www.livinglomonds.org.uk or join in for the Lochore Castle Open Day, 22nd August, 10am – 4pm, http://www.livinglomonds.org.uk/events/big-dig-lochore-castle-family-fun-day/