The group received £1217 in total from the Communities Can Do Fund to enable it to deliver projects focusing on the archaeology of Chatelherault Country Park in Hamilton.

In particular the group will now be able to explore two possible Iron Age Promontory forts; one to the south of the Avon Gorge; and the other at Eddlewood where the group has discovered the possible remains of a castle.

Chair of the council’s Finance and Corporate Resources Committee, Councillor Mo Razzaq, said: “I am delighted that the Communities Can Do Fund is able to help the Clutha Archaeology Group continue with their invaluable work.

“The funding will not only provide them with the funds and equipment to continue with their digs but will also allow them to promote the rich Archaeological history of our area and encourage others to volunteer as well.”

The group is independent, working with and supported by the council’s Countryside Ranger Service which has granted them permission to work on both sites.

And with advice on how to proceed with the digs provided by Archaeology Scotland, the group are also delighted the funding will also help them purchase more tools and equipment for new volunteers.

Other activities that the group will also now be able to carry out include programmes to engage with volunteers, providing them with opportunities and training in practical fieldwork skills.

Ailsa Smith, the chair of the Clutha Archaeology Group, said: “We are incredibly grateful to the council for their support. This funding enables us to run archaeological digs, surveys and training for our members.

“Our projects will improve the skills of the participants, whether completely new volunteers or those who already have some experience, in all aspects of Archaeology.”

The council’s Communities Can Do Fund provides eligible community organisations with grants of up to £20,000 to assist with revenue, capital funding, or a combination of both.