The first archaeological study at Kilmun has taken place, with the community taking part and helping the professionals. We were very fortunate in enjoying perfect weather on day one, and good weather the following day. Then we suffered torrential rain and high winds for much of the next two days.

There was a team of four experienced archaeologists from GUARD Archaeology, with at least three people on site throughout the study. A thorough survey of the graveyard and exterior of the medieval tower building was carried out, and visiting schools and the Argyll Mausoleum History Group were able to observe the proceedings, question the archaeologists and even assist with the groundwork.

Directors of AML attended throughout week and showed visitors the mausoleum as well as giving an outline of the site history and the restoration project, and providing cups of tea & coffee.

The interest and enthusiasm of the young people who came along was astonishing, and many of them asked if they could come again. There were 60 pupils and 12 teachers. Apart from curiosity about archaeological methods  the most popular aspect of the site visit was hearing the stories of some of the more bloodthirsty and gory parts of the history, and having access to the mausoleum.

The older visitors were equally receptive to the aims of the project, and were pleased to be given the chance to talk to the professionals and see what was happening. Visitors already in the area included people from the USA, Australia, the Borders and England who came along and all said they would love to return to follow progress.

An Early Christian grave marker has been located, as well as a 12th/13th century recumbent stone and other markers. The results of the highly technical study will now be analysed by the experts, and everyone concerned is waiting – some of us very impatiently – for the findings.