University of Chester archaeologists will return to a Roman villa site this September, as they continue to uncover evidence of Roman life in the region.

Working with DigVentures, the university is continuing its investigation into the first confirmed Roman villa discovered in North Wales, following a successful crowdfunding campaign.

The villa, near Rossett, was uncovered after a metal detectorist found a lead ingot in the area in 2019. Further investigations by the University and Archaeological Survey West revealed Roman flooring, ceramics and other artefacts, pointing to a high-status building.

Subsequent excavation confirmed the remains as a villa complex, a discovery which is helping to reshape understanding of Roman rural life in the region. It also raises the possibility that Roman wealth, villas and settlement extended further into Wales than previously thought.

Next month's dig will focus on new areas of the complex, with archaeologists investigating how it developed, how its inhabitants lived and worked, and how the site changed over time.

Much of the villa remains unexcavated, leaving questions about its layout, construction and occupation. The team hopes to establish how its rooms were used, when it was built and how long it remained occupied, as well as finding out more about the people who lived there.

Dr Caroline Pudney, senior lecturer in Archaeology at the University of Chester and co-site director, said: "Every season brings fresh discoveries, helping us build a clearer picture of the people who once lived here and their place in Roman Britain.

"Working alongside DigVentures and welcoming the public to be part of the journey allows us to deepen our understanding of the site while inspiring more people to connect with their local history and heritage."

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The excavation is being carried out in collaboration with Wrexham Museum, the Portable Antiquities Scheme, PAS Cymru and In Search of Roman Rural Settlement with Heneb.