Cornwall county council's historic environment service is calling for volunteers to help search for the remains of the lost Collegiate Church of Glasney, near Penryn - which was demolished in 1549.

Although little remains of the college above ground today, throughout the first two weeks of July archaeologists will be digging and sifting to find artefacts and uncover Glasney College - claimed as one of the most important religious centres in medieval Cornwall.

Founded by Bishop Bronescombe of Exeter in 1265, after he had claimed that the site had been revealed to him in a vision by St Thomas, the college played a major part in the life of Penryn. However, during Henry VIII's Reformation period, which involved stripping the assets of monastic/collegiate establishments and landholdings, the college was destroyed.

Andy Jones, environment and heritage senior archaeologist said: "The site we are about to work on is a very sacred place where a lot of early plays were held, including the Ordinalia play trilogy which was written in the early 15th century. As well as the old buildings that are shown on drawings, we think it's going to be a great opportunity to find out more about what really went on as well as increase awareness about just how many important historic sites there are in Cornwall."

English Heritage, the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Friends of Glasney College are contributing to the cost of the project, which is a significant cultural asset for Cornwall. The site's national importance is recognised by its designation as a scheduled monument, whereby it is protected by English Heritage.

Cornwall's Inspector of Ancient Monuments, Ian Morrison said: "This is a very important site for Cornwall, both historically and culturally, and English Heritage is happy to provide funding for the excavation."

During the two weeks of excavations, organised guided tours of the site will be given and volunteers will be needed to help out in a variety of tasks.

For further information and to secure your volunteer space, please call 01872 323 691.