Archaeologists have discovered a significant number of ancient Roman artefacts on Highways England’s A1 motorway upgrade project that runs from Leeming to Barton.

Among the discoveries were a lead plumb bob, Roman shoes, a silver ring, a rare amber figurine and the most northerly example of coin production in Europe.

It is believed that these finds hint at a far more sophisticated industrial and administrative centre in in Roman-era Yorkshire than had previously been thought.

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The sheer number of exceptional objects found on the road scheme had been extraordinary, according to Neil Redfern, principal inspector of ancient monuments at Historic England.

“Through them we are learning more and more about life here in the Roman period,” Neil added.

The road scheme is part of work to upgrade the dual-carriageway between Leeming and Barton with a new three-lane motorway.

The archaeological finds will impact the completion date of the scheme, however, Highways England expects to open the southern section in late summer.

Upgrades made to the A1 through Yorkshire over the last 20 years have resulted in more than 60 miles of road being investigated by archaeologists.