Aspiring archaeologists are hoping to uncover hidden treasure as they seek to delve into the Roman past of Potters Bar this summer.

An archaeological excavation is taking place every weekend at the Roman kiln in Parkfield until June 24. The dig is being run by Potters Bar Museum in partnership with Welwyn Archaeological Society and Hertsmere Council and hopes are high that some Roman buildings may be unearthed.

"We have about a dozen volunteers who are currently helping us at weekends," explained Tony Rook, director of Welwyn Archaeological Society.

"We are obviously fascinated by what we may find but we are in it for the fun."

Mr Rook refused to rule out the possibility of uncovering valuable artifacts but knows the chances of turning up gold coins are remote.

He added: "We only really started two weeks ago but we are getting Roman tiles and we hope to get a Roman structure or building in the next few weeks."

Following the excavation, Hertsmere Council is planning an interactive exhibition from June 28 to July 1 so that schools and residents can see for themselves the Roman history of Potters Bar. Visitors to the exhibition will be able to sample Roman food, try on togas and make mosaics.

If you would like to see the excavation in progress, the voluntary archaelogists will be in action on Saturday and Sundays between 10am and 5pm. For further details contact Dave Clarke at Hertsmere Council on 020 8207 7519.