EXPERTS conducting a survey of historical and archaeological sites in Blaenau Gwent found more than they bargained for.

For nearly 300 sites of interest were logged in the heritage audit - 23 of them previously unrecognised.

The sites have been flagged up since work began on a heritage audit in early June this year.

The number includes:

* Seven scheduled ancient monuments of national importance;

* Fifty-seven listed buildings and one registered heritage park in Bedwellty;

* Forty-six prehistoric sites;

* One possible Roman road;

* Ten medieval sites;

* Two hundred post-medieval sites which are mainly agricultural and industrial features.

As well as documenting well-known sites such as the Roundhouse Towers in Nantyglo, council officers working on the audit have revealed 23 new sites.

These range from bronze age burial cairns, bronze age standing stones, a prehistoric boundary dyke and medieval boundary dykes.

The packhorse bridge in Aberbeeg looks set to get listed status from Welsh historic monuments body Cadw as a result of the audit, which will make it eligible for grant aid.

Robin Morrison, chief executive and director of community services, said: "The audit has already led to a greatly improved understanding of the Bronze Age archaeology of the county borough."

He added: "The detailed histories of several sites of historical importance have now been researched and included in the site reports.

"Even at this early stage, it is becoming clear that the Heritage audit and database will transform our knowledge and appreciation of the history and archaeology of the county borough and will be a valuable tool in the management of Blaenau Gwent's heritage."

Michael Bidnell, research and information officer for the Georgian Group, which deals with conservation of historical sites, said: "The group is especially interested to see so much interest focused on the Nantyglo Roundhouses, currently in need of much attention."

Since the heritage department was set up earlier this year, links have been established with outside bodies such as the Welsh Built Heritage Forum and the Pan-Wales Prehistoric Funerary and Ritual Sites Survey.