Hopes dig will solve Warrington Castle mystery

Efforts to find a long-lost medieval castle in Warrington have been launched by local researchers.

They believe they now have enough evidence to prove a castle once stood on the site of St Elphin's Park in the Cheshire town.

Keith Myers, who is leading the community-led heritage and archaeology project, believes the site near the River Mersey was once a place of strategic and political importance, shaped by Roman, Saxon and Norman activity.

"We're not saying we have found the castle, but there is now enough evidence to investigate the site carefully, responsibly, and thoroughly," he explained.

"Historical records, evidence and recent surveys all point to the possibility of significant archaeological remains still present beneath St Elphin's Park," added Myers.

He said he hoped the work would help to reconnect local people with their heritage.

"So many historic stories disappear over time, but they still shape the places we live in today.

"This is about local identity and giving Warrington the chance to understand a part of its own story that has almost vanished from public memory."

A fundraising campaign has been launched to pay for a small, controlled archaeological investigation.

Organisers have warned against any unofficial digging or metal detecting in the area, which they say could damage potential evidence.

Myers said the next phase would be professionally managed with full permissions, insurance, safety measures, and expert archaeological guidance put in place.

Ollie Cook, director of Civic Archaeology, said: "The important thing is that it's managed professionally and with the correct sensitivity."

Myers agreed: "This project is about revealing Warrington's hidden history but doing it carefully and responsibly.

"Warrington has a much deeper story than many people realise, and this is a chance for local people, schools, businesses and heritage partners to be part of finding out what lies beneath."

Warrington Borough Council deputy leader and cabinet member for communities, culture and leisure, Jean Flaherty, said it was "a wonderful community project and a brilliant example of how we can come together to explore and celebrate our shared heritage".

"Initiatives like this help bring those stories to life... and strengthen community pride," she said.

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