MILITARY personnel from Operation Nightingale have been given a valuable insight into Kings Barton’s vibrant history.

The three veterans visited the development in Winchester to take part in the second phase of archaeological works to unearth the site’s military roots.

Operation Nightingale is part of the Ministry of Defence initiative which aids the recovery and skill development of service personnel injured in conflict.

The veterans were invited to the development to witness the site’s impressive history first-hand in the form of two 18th century militia camps; one established in 1756 by the Hessian militia recruited to defend Britain from an invasion by France at the start of the Seven Year’s War and one set up by the Hampshire militia in 1761.

Richard Osgood, senior archaeologist for the Ministry of Defence and co-director of Operation Nightingale, said: “Operation Nightingale not only provides much needed respite and encourages comradery between ex-military personnel but also offers access to opportunities that they may not otherwise experience.

“With each of the veterans now studying for degrees in archaeology at Winchester University, it was fantastic to work on a local site with such an impressive military history and we were thrilled to witness the findings first-hand.”

The project followed the first phase of archaeological works which were completed in February 2015. Both phases were undertaken by Pre-Construct Archaeology Ltd on behalf of CALA Homes and archaeological consultant, CgMs.

Winchester City Council were closely involved in the project, which has uncovered archaeological remains which indicate Kings Barton also formed part of a settled landscape during prehistoric times.

Following completion of the investigations, construction has now begun onsite to deliver 200 brand new homes.

Cllr Caroline Brook, Winchester City Council executive member for built environment, said: “Operation Nightingale is a fantastic initiative, and I couldn’t resist coming along to see it in action.

“Winchester has a close relationship with the armed forces and where better for Operation Nightingale to discover the city’s military history. The work going on looking at the archaeological finds was fascinating and there were some amazing discoveries.”

Kings Barton is an new suburb of Winchester that will eventually see 2,000 homes around a centre of shops and community facilities, as well as a new school and public space.

The site will continue to be developed over the next 10-15 years, with a ‘reserved matters’ planning application for the next phase of 300 homes due to be submitted this autumn.