The archaeology of central York is often explored, but little work has been carried out in the villages that ring the city.
Now amateur historians and budding archaeologists can call for professional back-up from community archaeologist Eliza Gore. Ms Gore, an honours graduate in archaeology from Exeter and York universities, said: "There is so much out there in York's rural hinterland waiting to be discovered and many people in local villages who want to go looking for it."
Her appointment for the next five years was funded by Lottery cash as part of a national campaign to get more people investigating their local heritage.
York Archaeological Trust has been looking at how outlying areas could be explored and the task was taken on by York Archaeological Forum, a group of professional and amateur archaeologists who advise York Council.
Forum chairman John Hampshire said a community archaeologist would help existing groups and encourage the formation of new ones.
"This is the first time an appointment has been made to bring together groups of people interested in exploring their own historic environment," he said. "This is a new approach to archaeology, harnessing the potential of numerous sources and involving the community in the exploration of their own landscape."
In addition to £212,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund, secured with help from English Heritage, York Archaeological Trust has contributed £67,000. Trust archaeology director Dr Richard Hall will oversee the project, which he described as "a great opportunity to assist local groups in greater York to explore, explain and enjoy their community's archaeological heritage".
Ms Gore will be based at the trust and can draw on its expertise and experience, putting amateur archaeologists in touch with experts.
Modern practices in archaeology extend far beyond digging holes – investigations range from exploring mysterious humps in fields to the siting of ancient hedgerows, researching local history through documents, detailed surveying of existing buildings and the recording of personal testimonies.