From the editor

“The Council for British Archaeology”, said Francis Pryor when Mike Heyworth was appointed its director in 2004, “is in his blood.” He had started work 14 years before, to help with an archaeological bibliography for Britain and Ireland. Now, 15 years later, he is leaving.

Much has changed since Mike first joined the cba as staff in 1990 – not least the headquarters’ move from London to York. The practice of archaeology at universities and in the field, and public and political perceptions and engagement, have been transformed. As an educational charity that bridges the whole sector, regardless of specialist and professional silos, the cba has reflected and shared in those changes. Mike’s commitment has never wavered.

Where next? We have not been told. But as John Oxley, another York-based archaeologist, says as he anticipates stepping down from his job (My archaeology, page 14), “I don’t think you can not not be an archaeologist. Archaeology is a way of life.” Mike Heyworth, archaeologist, we wish you a long and active future.

And should you wish to take up the cba challenge, turn to page 61.