PROMISING archaeologists have been celebrated during a prestigious awards ceremony in Dublin Castle.

Victoria Sands and Tabitha Gulliver Lawrence, of the Colchester Archaeological Trust, were both shortlisted for the Early Careers Archaeologist Award, with the former scooping it.

The recognition, as part of the Archaeological Achievement Awards, marks the achievements and hard work of those within the early years of their career.

Colchester Archaeological Trust has hailed an “incredible achievement” for the city following the ceremony.

Gazette: Proud - Victoria Sands with her awardProud - Victoria Sands with her award (Image: Colchester Archaeological Trust)

Victoria said she was “so proud and completely gobsmacked” by the news, having also been put forward for the overall Outstanding Achievement Award.

She added: “In my mind there was absolutely zero chance that I was getting on that stage and I was completely speechless.

“All I can say is that I will definitely continue working to do this award proud, and thank you to all the staff and volunteers at CAT that make my job a joy.”