A PREHISTORIC round house was the focus of an archaeological excavation at Bellever, near Postbridge, last weekend.

The dig site was opened for public viewing to celebrate the British Archaeology's Festival of British Archaeology and National Parks Week.

Cllr Roger Croad, Devon County Council cabinet member for environmental services, said: 'This was a rare opportunity to witness archaeological investigation on a pre-historic dwelling on Dartmoor.

'Everything that has been found at the site to date reveals the area has seen a series of occupation, abandonment and re-use over 3,500 years ago.

'This year it was hoped to increase understanding of the site by opening up new areas of excavation, possibly identifying new features and recovering further artefacts and information that will add to our understanding of the round house and its fascinating story.'

Around 580 people of all ages were at the event which was organised by Dartmoor National Park Authority and the county council.

Archaeologist Jane Marchand said: 'The day was a great success and demonstrated the huge interest the public have in Dartmoor's archaeology.'

A marquee at Postbridge held several activities for visitors of all ages.

There was pottery making for children, corn grinding, book stores, replica bronze artefacts available to handle and an exhibition of photographs by the Dartmoor Trust.

Guided walks were available to take visitors to the archaeological excavation.

Talks were then given at the site by archaeologists Jane Marchand and Andy Crabb.

Funding for the excavation has been provided by Dartmoor National Park Authority,

English Heritage, Devon County Council, the Dartmoor Trust and Forest Enterprise.