FAMILIES have one last chance this weekend to see inside a real archaeological dig.

The Earth Trust, which is having the massive excavation at its centre near Didcot, has invited parents and children to get up-close to history.

The charity commissioned the dig at its Little Wittenham site ahead of a massive expansion which will create replica Iron Age roundhouses, a new natural classroom and an improved working farmyard.

The archaeology is made all the more exciting by the fact the Earth Trust centre sits at the foot of the Wittenham Clumps, one of which was occupied by an Iron Age hillfort.

Previous excavations – including famously by Channel 4's Time Team in 2004 – have revealed a wealth of historical secrets.

Now the current investigation, led by archaeologists from London-based DigVentures, hopes to add fresh evidence to the story of the people who built the iconic hillfort.

Lisa Westcott Wilkins, co-founder of DigVentures, said: "The Earth Trust looks after 500 hectares of natural green spaces, rich in fascinating archaeology.

"This excavation gives us a chance to find out much more about the people who built the impressive Iron Age hillfort at Wittenham Clumps, by investigating other areas of occupation nearby."

Previous excavations have found evidence of Bronze Age, Iron Age and medieval settlements, and Roman discoveries like a raven shrouded in silk.

Throughout the dig, the Earth Trust has been offering families free daily tours around the site which allow visitors to see the archaeology being uncovered and learn more about the ancient history of one of the region's most unique landscapes.

This weekend families can join the last two tours from midday to 3pm both days.

Ms Westcott Wilkins added: "There are plenty of Iron Age pits on site and we’ve already uncovered loads of pots, as well as some Neolithic flint.

"We don’t know exactly what else we’ll find but a geophysical survey revealed what look like a number of Iron Age roundhouses and Roman buildings close to where we’ll be digging.

"The archaeological potential here is huge. We want to share any finds we do make with as many people as possible - it’s very exciting."

People at home can also follow the excavation online at digventures.com/earth-trust and tonight the dig team will give a talk on their discoveries at the Earth Trust from 7pm. Limited numbers of tickets will be available on the door.

Find out more at earthtrust.org.uk