Carnoustie treasure trove will be the talk of big conference

A talk about the Carnoustie treasure trove will feature as part of Tayside and Fife Archaeological Committee’s annual conference next month.

The event, now in its 40th year, will be held at Dundee University’s Dalhousie Building on Old Hawkhill on Saturday November 4 from 9.40am to 4.45pm.

The programme reflects the most recent fieldwork, excavation and research in the Tayside and Fife area.

Alain Blair of Glasgow University’s Archaeological Research Division (Guard) will speak about the Bronze Age hoard recently found in Carnoustie.

The remarkable haul of ancient artefacts at Balmachie has been described as being of international significance and the magnitude of the find unrivalled in Scotland.

A gold-decorated spearhead, a bronze sword and a leather and wooden sword sheath — believed to be the best preserved late Bronze Age scabbard in Britain — were found at the site beside Carnoustie High School.

The discovery has led to calls for a museum to be established in the town to display the items.

Other speakers at the conference include Chris Fyles of Alder Archaeology, who will discuss the excavations at Perth Theatre.

Jane Geddes will speak about the Drostan Stone, a Pictish stone at St Vigeans.

There will also be a number of book stands and displays from a range of organisations at the event.

Tickets are priced £15 and can be bought on the door.

The group’s annual journal will be available for free online this year. Back issues will be available at the conference.