Sedgeford Historical and Archaeological Research Project

The Sedgeford Historical and Archaeological Research Project (SHARP) is a long-term, multidisciplinary research project based in north-west Norfolk, United Kingdom. It is involved in the investigation of the local history and archaeology, with a strong emphasis on community involvement, practical training and education. The Project attracts volunteer excavators and students from all over the world.

In 1957-58, Peter Jewell of the University of Cambridge excavated small trenches on the "Boneyard Field" and recorded a number of human burials and features.

SHARP was founded in 1996, initially focussing on the same Anglo-Saxon cemetery located to the south of the modern village of Sedgeford. Since that time, SHARP has investigated many other sites within the parish using a variety of methods: open-area excavation, test-pitting, geophysical survey, fieldwalking and metal detection, and the analysis of historical documents.

SHARP is made up of a team of directors, supervisors, trustees and committee members, along with up to 70 excavators during June-August.

The Project is one of the largest training digs in the UK, providing practical training in excavation and recording as well as running taught courses on aspects of the site: e.g. skeletal remains, artefacts, and Anglo-Saxon history. However, unlike most training sites, it is independent from any one academic institution and operates as a registered UK charity (number 1064553).

Over the years a number of particularly unusual discoveries have been made:

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