One of Ireland's biggest prehistoric Bronze Age sites has been discovered in Downpatrick.

These revelations came from the popular archeological television series 'Time Team' during excavation works associated with the construction of the new Down High School. 

Sinn Féin MP Chris Hazzard has called for an urgent response from the government to protect the rich heritage of the site.

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Chris Hazzard said: "This is a significant historical discovery in Downpatrick; potentially the largest prehistoric Bronze Age site found anywhere to date in Ireland.

"It raises urgent and important questions now about future construction on, or near this site. 

"Today I have asked authorities to urgently outline how they now plan to protect and appropriately examine the area to ensure we do not destroy what could be one of Ireland's most important prehistoric sites.

"The potential historical significance of this site demands an urgent, and thorough response from all those government agencies with a responsibility for the protection of our social and cultural heritage."