NEW regulations have been set up for those using Chippenham Fields after it was discovered vital archaeology is lying just below the surface.

The fresh rules, announced this morning (1st April) apply to all those who use the area, including sports teams home and away that play matches of any sort on the park's pitches.

An ancient burial ground has been discovered after a series of tests were conducted on Chippenham Fields. Fresh evidence has come to light suggesting that Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, the last king of Wales before it was conquered by Edward I, is buried in the area.

There is some confusion as to where he was laid to rest, with an abbey at Abbeycwmhir and Llanrumney Hall in Cardiff both suggested.

Because of this, until the site can be properly studied by archaeologists and protected, those using Chippenham Fields can only do so under certain conditions.

Sports teams cannot wear sports boots of any sort. Rugby tackles are prohibited with only touch rugby allowed and football teams are not allowed to slide tackle.

The penalty for either of these non-standing tackles is an immediate red card. Governing associations have been informed of these changes to the rules and agreed accordingly.

Recreational users, including those walking across the park or exercising dogs, must put on specially provided slippers, found in bins situated at each gate. Walkers must then carry their own shoes until leaving the area.

No balls, frisbees or any other missile can be thrown, either for animals to chase or as a game between groups. Dogs will be allowed access to Chippenham Fields but cannot be let off the lead and must walk at all times.

The most difficult restriction though is the prohibition of squirrels.

All the squirrels in the area are being rounded up and nets placed around the perimeter trees to prevent their return. The reason for this is that the digging the animals regularly carry out is causing untold damage to archaeology beneath the surface.

New signposts will go up as soon they have been manufactured and the slippers are being shipped in from Holland where a similar set-up exists in a park in Amsterdam.

If anyone has any questions regarding the new restrictions, they can email [email protected]">[email protected]EW regulations have been set up for those using Chippenham Fields after it was discovered vital archaeology is lying just below the surface.

The fresh rules, announced this morning (1st April) apply to all those who use the area, including sports teams home and away that play matches of any sort on the park's pitches.

An ancient burial ground has been discovered after a series of tests were conducted on Chippenham Fields. Fresh evidence has come to light suggesting that Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, the last king of Wales before it was conquered by Edward I, is buried in the area.

There is some confusion as to where he was laid to rest, with an abbey at Abbeycwmhir and Llanrumney Hall in Cardiff both suggested.

Because of this, until the site can be properly studied by archaeologists and protected, those using Chippenham Fields can only do so under certain conditions.

Sports teams cannot wear sports boots of any sort. Rugby tackles are prohibited with only touch rugby allowed and football teams are not allowed to slide tackle.

The penalty for either of these non-standing tackles is an immediate red card. Governing associations have been informed of these changes to the rules and agreed accordingly.

Recreational users, including those walking across the park or exercising dogs, must put on specially provided slippers, found in bins situated at each gate. Walkers must then carry their own shoes until leaving the area.

No balls, frisbees or any other missile can be thrown, either for animals to chase or as a game between groups. Dogs will be allowed access to Chippenham Fields but cannot be let off the lead and must walk at all times.

The most difficult restriction though is the prohibition of squirrels.

All the squirrels in the area are being rounded up and nets placed around the perimeter trees to prevent their return. The reason for this is that the digging the animals regularly carry out is causing untold damage to archaeology beneath the surface.

New signposts will go up as soon they have been manufactured and the slippers are being shipped in from Holland where a similar set-up exists in a park in Amsterdam.

If anyone has any questions regarding the new restrictions, they can email [email protected]">[email protected]