A FRAGMENT of history from more than 3,000 years ago has been saved from oblivion, thanks to volunteers rescuing a Romsey landmark.

At fire-gutted King John's House, volunteers are helping staff and experts salvage what they can from the damaged medieval building.

One of them, a postgraduate student from the University of Winchester, found a Bronze Age axe head in their collection.

The museum wrote on Facebook: "Under guidance from professionals, volunteers have sifted through eight boxes of ash from King John’s House, spoonful by spoonful, as progress continues on the post-fire clean-up.

Volunteers sifting ash (Image: King John's House) "One of our University of Winchester students discovered a Bronze Age axe head from the collections. Other finds include daub from the wattle and daub walls, with the original hair still visible.

"In traditional wattle and daub construction, hair, often from horses, was used as a reinforcement material mixed into daub, a mud-based plaster. The hair helped to bind and resist cracking as the daub dried."

The museum has been keeping people from Romsey and beyond updated on the progress of its journey following the devastating fire in February. It is also encouraging potential volunteers to get involved.

Jade Poulton, museum manager, said: "The enthusiasm, care and dedication on display from our volunteers is outstanding and we certainly make time to enjoy the odd cup of tea and a chat too.

"If you are interested in volunteering to support our work, we'd love to hear from you. We'll soon be looking for people who can help out with some painting and fixing up.

"If you have a bit of spare time on your hands or just want to try something new, email us for more via info@kingjohnshouse.org.uk."

If you are interested in learning more about King John's House or donating to it as it recovers, go to https://kingjohnshouse.org.uk/