AS James Bond was thrilling generations of movie-goers, his name sake was on his own mission in Worcestershire.

In 1969 James Bond became the county’s first ever county archaeologist.

Mr Bond was just 24-years-old when he was taken on to create an archaeology service at Worcestershire County Council. He was a geography graduate, yet to pass his driving test and living in a caravan and it was his first job.

The service is this year celebrating its half century milestone and those who contributed to it, so as the man who helped to develop it Mr Bond’s role is also being celebrated.

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Back in the 1960s there were fears for archaeological sites as towns expanded and excavations increased. Councils began hiring county archaeologists, to carry out vital work.

Since 1969 more than 85,000 records of archaeological sites, historic buildings and landscapes have been created, with Worcestershire Archive and Archaeology Service at the heart of this work.

Mr Bond said: “Most of the first generation of county archaeologists appointed through the 1960s and 1970s were based in planning departments.

“Worcestershire was unusual in attaching the post to a museum which formed part of the county’s education department. It had real advantages in allowing a much more positive connection with the general public. This was an exciting time when every exploration produced new discoveries.

"I made it my priority to begin collecting and collating information on archaeological sites and historic buildings on a card index and plotting them on paper map. I loved the variety of the Worcestershire landscape, and retain particular fondness for places which sparked off interests which have engaged me throughout my subsequent career.”

Victoria Bryant, manager of the archive and archaeology service that is now based at The Hive, said: “James is a vital piece of our story, setting up the foundations for the modern service we see today. As we celebrate our work and all we have achieved in the past 50 years, our thanks go to all those who have led and worked for the service over five decades.”

For more on Mr Bond and the work of his successors visit explorethepast.co.uk/blog.