A PROJECT to restore the ancient hillfort at Norton Fitzwarren for future generations will be launched on Saturday (July 27) from 1pm to 4pm.

A community archaeology festival at the village hall will kickstart plans for people to get involved in the initiative.

Somerset West and Taunton Council has been working with Historic England, Norton Fitzwarren Parish Council and South West Heritage Trust (SWHT) to protect the fort, the site of a Neolithic ancient monument.

The site, which contains important archaeological remains, will require many improvements to preserve and protect ancient earthworks, enhance the site and remove it from Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register.

Charlotte Russell, Heritage at Risk project officer for Historic England South West, said: "Norton Fitzwarren Hillfort is a remarkable monument and the festival of archaeology event is a great opportunity to celebrate its bright new future.

"We know the fort was important to generations of people through prehistory, and it continues to inspire and intrigue us today."

Pupils from Norton Fitzwarren Primary School have designed logos for the launch and it is hoped the whole site will become an informal community space.

During the festival, there will be a guided walk around the hillfort, leaving the village hall at 2pm and lasting for about an hour.