The CLASP group, a registered charity, has been gathering Roman objects from sites across the county for 10 years, amassing a hoard of valuable material that is helping piece together exactly how people lived in Northamptonshire 2,000 years ago.
But a farm building that has been holding the objects has now changed hands, and the new owner has given notice he would eventually like to see them find a new home.
Stephen Young, archaeological director, said: “We have such a lot of good stuff, from a good 20 sites in the county, and we would love to show people what we have.
“It really needs a permanent home where it can be stored and appreciated.”
The charity wants to know of any suitable buildings, perhaps one in need of some restoration, which CLASP (Community Landscape and Archæology Survey Project) could carry out as part of its lease agreement.
Ideally they would like to have space to store the approximately 1,000 boxes, process material and display it for occasional visits by school children or other interested people.
So far CLASP has identified Roman-era skeletons, glass decorated with images of gladiators and part of a villa bathhouse.
Sites stretch from Towcester to Whilton and include areas at Upton and Duston in Northampton.
Norman Garnett, of CLASP, said: “I’d m not sure what we’d do if the worst came to the worst.
“It’s a terrible thing to have to contemplate because it is such an interesting collection for the whole county.”
Professional archaeologists lead CLASP’s activities and contribute specialist skills when necessary, but amateur enthusiasts are encouraged to help and learn skills for themselves.
CLASP also provides talks and lectures as part of its commitment to encouraging local communities to ‘own’ their archaeological heritage.
Anyone who may be able to help the charity can call Stephen Young on 07981 845631.
For more information about CLASP, visit www.claspweb.org.uk
Author: Nick Spoors | Source: Northampton Chronicle [March 13, 2012]