A medieval souterrain and house have been uncovered as part of advanced works on the £65m A26 scheme.

The early medieval souterrain is a substantial archaeological feature consisting of a number of underground passages, some of which were stone lined. This was used by local people to hide from raiding parties on the search for potential slaves.

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Transport Minister Danny Kennedy visited the site to examine the finds and said: "The archaeological investigation works completed on the A26 dualling have been a significant success. Advanced site clearance works have allowed the Department to carry out archaeological investigations along the scheme prior to contract award.

"By agreeing a joined up approach, staff from my Department, contractors Arup and NIEA Built Heritage have uncovered important archaeological finds and also eliminated the risk of delay and additional costs to the A26 scheme."

(CD)