For those of you out there interested in experimental archaeology or who, like me, are latent pyromaniacs who gave up smoking for the new year I'm happy to let you know about a unique opportunity.

Niall Kenny has organised an experimental charcoal making event which will be taking place in Meath, starting Sunday week. That's assuming the ground isn't frozen solid or covered in snow!

Niall has done a lot of research into early charcoal making in Ireland and hopes to re-create an archaeologically excavated charcoal pit kiln (and possibly a mound kiln as well). I'm tagging along and the hope is that if the experiment is successful I can use the resulting charcoal in my smelt in March.

Anyone interested is welcome to come along and have a look but it is essential that you let us know that you will be visiting as it takes place on private land.

More information can be found on the project's website.