A campaign has been launched to help raise over £40,000 to support two major north-east archaeological digs.
The Book of Deer Project has been carrying out work since 2008 in an effort to locate the early medieval Monastery of Deer.
Those involved now hope to raise about £40,000-£50,000 for what they have called Project Open Hart – Revealing the Secrets of the Deer Field.
The dig is to take place in 2022 and members have hopes of making further interesting finds following a number of exciting discoveries in recent years.
Chairwoman Anne Simpson said: “At the last dig in 2018 there were some interesting finds, such as a round flat stone with a game engraved on it.
“The response from local youngsters has been fantastic in the past. It’s a great way to spend time outdoors and learn more about the history of the local area.”
The group have previously received funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and plan to apply again in October to help facilitate the costs of the big dig.
The second project, which will be a partnership with other groups, is for the loan of the Book of Deer from Cambridge University.
The 10th century illuminated manuscript contains the oldest pieces of Gaelic writing to have survived from early medieval Scotland.
Mrs Simpson said: “This is really exciting and my hope is that it will be on display from May to October in 2022, which will tie in with the Year of Scotland’s Stories.
“It is something that could be combined with other events and exhibitions.”
It is understood “a couple of thousand pounds” needs to be raised for the loan of the Book of Deer from Cambridge University.
Mrs Simpson said: “I believe the last time the book was in Scotland was in Glasgow in 1990.
“It would be quite something for it to be on display here but certain criteria need to be met.”
Last year members of the Book of Deer Project visited Cambridge to see the book on display.
Mrs Simpson added: “It was amazing to see. Being able to examine it is almost like touching the past.”
A number of potential venues for the display of the book in 2022 are being considered.
Donations in support of the projects can be made online at www.justgiving.com
