Open Day — Sunday, August 23, 2015

The one-thousandth visitors at today's open day — the Pinon family, from Spain, who were presented with a signed copy of the new Ness guidebook by director Nick.

The one-thousandth visitors at today’s open day — the Pinon family, from Spain, who were presented with a signed copy of the new Ness guidebook by director Nick.

Over 1,200 visitors . . .

We have had an absolutely amazing open day, with over 1,250 visitors enjoying a sunny, but rather blustery day.

It’s been a busy day, so there’s no blog today but we hope you enjoy the photos.

It was fantastic to see many local faces among the throngs of visitors. Huge thanks to all concerned who made it such a massive success, including the numerous people who worked behind the scenes and the Stenness Community Association, who provided teas and homebakes at the Stenness School to raise funds for the Friends of Happy Valley. Thank you all!

There are only three days remaining for the 11am, 1pm and 3pm site tours, so do try and catch us before we cover the site on Thursday and Friday.

Stone tools expert Ann was in the Stenness Hall, to discuss with visitors some of the artefacts found at the Ness.

Stone tools expert Ann was in the Stenness Hall, to discuss with visitors some of the artefacts found at the Ness.

Mike was on hand again, complete with his superb reconstructions, to show how pottery was made and used at the Ness.

Mike was on hand again, complete with his superb reconstructions, to show how pottery was made and used at the Ness.

Sarah Jane and Jen set up their bone stall in the Stenness School to explain how bone evidence is used in archaeology.

Sarah Jane and Jen set up their bone stall in the Stenness School to explain how bone evidence is used in archaeology.

Peter Leith, from Stenness, came along to show the ancient art of straw rope making.

Peter Leith, from Stenness, came along to show the ancient art of straw rope making.

Kevin Critchlow provided a fine display of the art of the drystone waller - nothing has changed in over 5,000 years.

Kevin Critchlow provided a fine display of the art of the drystone waller – nothing has changed in over 5,000 years.

The first tour of the Open Day getting under way in brilliant sunshine (but it was very windy) this morning.

The first tour of the Open Day getting under way in brilliant sunshine (but it was very windy) this morning.

Val, one of the OAS shop team, really entered the spirit of the day with her splendid outfit.

Val, one of the OAS shop team, really entered the spirit of the day with her splendid outfit.

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