A NEW exhibition at Durham University’s Museum of Archaeology will explore the rich ritual history of two of County Durham’s major rivers, the Wear and Tees.

‘Throwing it Out There: The Archaeology of Ritual, Rivers and Rubbish’ uncovers stories spanning thousands of years through objects fished out of the rivers.

It includes everything from Roman ritual and medieval pilgrimage items, to contemporary objects representing love, loss and the occasional children’s toy.

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The exhibition, which opened on June 15, showcases artefacts dating from the medieval period as well as Bronze Age hoards found by metal detectorists.

It also features Roman objects found by divers Bob Middlemass and Rolfe Mitchinson, who have 36-years’ experience under their belts.

The pair found two previously undiscovered wooden bridges when diving in the River Tees at Piercebridge, near Darlington, along with a significant collection of Roman artefacts.

Mr Middlemass said: “There are mysteries to be found in every river.”

The exhibition also shows artefacts recovered from Elvet Bridge by underwater archaeologist Gary Bankhead who contributed to a previous River Wear exhibition at the Museum of Archaeology that attracted almost 10,000 visitors.

Mr Bankhead said: “The exhibition is another wonderful opportunity for the people of Durham, and its visitors, to marvel at these small things forgotten, from the everyday material culture of Durham’s past residents.

“I’m extremely proud to have been instrumental in the discovery of the Elvet Bridge objects and I’m delighted that they now make a fine addition to the collections of Durham University’s Museum of Archaeology.”

The exhibition, which features trails, interactive displays and other family-friendly activities, has been curated by Durham University students working towards an MA in Museum and Artefact Studies.

Megan Shannon, one of the student curators, said: “Working on the exhibition has been an incredible experience.

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“The team have all worked so hard to make a beautiful exhibition and we cannot wait for everyone to see the final product.”

‘Throwing it Out There: The Archaeology of Ritual, Rivers and Rubbish’ runs until Sunday 12 November, 2023 at the Museum of Archaeology in the Palace Green Library complex in Durham City.

It is open from 10am to 5pm daily and entry is free.