A sneak peak of the River Hunters episode filmed in Colchester

River Hunters is back for a second season to follow river detectorists as they search underwater locations of historic significance.

In episode five of the six-part series, river detectorist Beau Ouimette, TV presenter Rick Edwards and underwater archaeologist Gary Bankhead travel to Colchester to find evidence from the second English Civil War in what became the longest siege in British history - lasting 11 weeks.

A spokesman for the show said: “Amazing finds from this episode include a short barrelled Carbine gun which was commonly used by the Cavalry in the 1600s and a horse stirrup which is believed to be from the 1648 Civil war siege due to its age and position on the river bank.

“To further their search, they will be joined by local archaeologists, metal detectorists and historians in each episode, some of whom have waited years for this unique opportunity to search these historic sites.

“The returning series offers a new perspective on each river’s layered past and could redefine British history as we know it.”

The Colchester episode will be reflecting on the Siege of Colchester which happened in 1648 when the town became embroiled in a bitter and brutal second English Civil War.

As royalist supporters retreated inside the town walls, the Parliamentarians surrounded the town, cut off escape routes and began to hammer the town with cannon and musket fire.

With the River Colne situated on the outskirts of the old Roman walls, it is “prime hunting ground” for siege relics, as the team head to the rural margins of the city to search a crossing which was used by fleeing Royalist soldiers attempting to escape.

Uncovered are incredible artefacts dating back to the Roman occupation of the town and rare finds that could date back to the 17th century siege.

The Colchester episode will air on Sky History on Monday, May 3 at 9pm.