Archaeologists in Lincolnshire are suffering redundancies as a result of the credit crunch.

Firms in the Lincoln area are having to lay off staff and think of contingency plans because of the effects of the recession.

The problems have arisen because many archaeology companies are heavily dependent on construction work, which has declined dramatically this year.

Naomi Field, director of Lindsey Archaeological Services, said archaeology is 'a very sensitive barometer of the economic climate'.

Ms Field said two of their 11 staff have had to be laid off recently because of a lack of work.

It was a similar story at Network Archaeology, also based in Lincoln's West Parade, where  two people have lost their jobs.

"We are looking at ways of tightening up," said director Chris Taylor. "It is a worrying time for archaeology generally."

City archaeologist Mick Jones said he was very aware of the sense of anxiety building within the profession.

"There have been quite a few instances recently of projects having to be put on ice because of building developments not proceeding," Mr Jones said.

"This is a frustrating time for everyone as we have to wait longer for opportunities to learn more about Lincoln's history."

For more on the time team troubles, see Friday's Echo