AN opportunity to explore and debate on Dartmoor's archaeology since the 1950s is on offer later this month.

The 14th Dartmoor Society Debate, on Saturday, September 24 at Meldon Village Hall, will look into Dartmoor's archaeological heritage and its conservation from 1951 to present day as part of the 60th anniversary of the creation of Dartmoor National Park.

Dartmoor is now recognised as having some of the finest archaeological landscapes in the world, dating from prehistory to the 20th century — prehistoric ritual and farming, medieval fields and settlement, tinworking, copper, lead and iron mining, stonecutting and quarrying, peatcutting, rabbit warrening, charcoal burning and military activity.

The day long debate will include talks from Dr Tom Greeves, independent cultural environmentalist and former Dartmoor National Park archaeologist, Andy Crabb, DNPA archaeologist and English Heritage historic environment field advisor, and Alexandra Richards, DNPA historic environment record officer.

Dr Tom Greeves, chairman of the Dartmoor Society said: 'After 60 years of national park status this is a good moment to consider how much we have learned about Dartmoor's amazing archaeological landscape and to reflect on whether it has been looked after well.

'This day will be full of interesting information and ideas, and will look to the future by exploring what gaps there are in our knowledge, and where we should focus resources.'

The day is open to everyone and will run from 10am to 4.30pm.

Advanced booking is essential by September 16. £15 for members and £16 for non-members, including coffee, lunch and tea.

Send name, address and contact details, with a cheque payable to The Dartmoor Society, to PO Box 38, Tavistock, Devon, PL19 0XJ.

For more information email [email protected]">[email protected] or phone 01803 327554.