Archaeologist Arran Johnson has been recognized by the Council for British Archaeology

York Archeology’s Arran Johnson was named Community Archaeologist of the Year at the 2023 Marsh Community Archeology Awards.

Arran is part of the York Archeology team that carries out community projects at Willow House in Walmgate. He leads the ongoing dig, which involves local charities that support people with mental health and fight social isolation, as well as those referred by GPs and self-referrals.

The digs provide a supportive environment in which conversation, community and new skills are developed by those with no prior experience in archaeology.

Arran said, “I love exploring how all the tools and techniques we use in field archeology can be used to improve people’s lives, with amazing results.”

“There is an inherent commonality with archaeology, it is a team effort that can range from the novice to the seasoned specialist, all making a meaningful contribution to the knowledge.

“It’s great for mindfulness and can be very grounding even when working outdoors in any weather.”