‘Life after the Ice Age: Uncovering secrets of hunter-gatherers at Star Carr and Flixton Island, in the Vale of Pickering'

In this talk, we will journey back over 10,000 years to explore the extraordinary prehistoric archaeology that has been excavated from two sites located around a vast ancient lake, Lake Flixton. Discover how the unique, waterlogged conditions found at the Mesolithic site of Star Carr have acted as a prehistoric time capsule, preserving evidence of Britain's oldest wooden bow, early evidence of domesticated dogs, and the iconic antler headdresses. We will also learn more about Britain's final Palaeolithic hunters from evidence found at Flixton Island - a site that offers us a rare glimpse into the lives of those who were some of the last to live alongside wild horses. Join us to learn more about the people who formed a key part of Yorkshire's deep history and shaped part of the landscape we see around us today. 

Dr Andy Needham is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Archaeology, University of York, specialising in the Upper Palaeolithic and Mesolithic periods and the use of experimental archaeology. Andy works across a range of material culture and is particularly interested in art and personal ornamentation. Andy excavated at the sites of Star Carr and Flixton Island as part of the POSTGLACIAL Project and has published with colleagues on the personal ornaments and stone awls recovered from the former site.