Archaeologists bid to dig up secrets of Battle of Waterloo

The Battle of Waterloo took place on June 15, 1815

It's one of the most famous battles in modern European history, a notorious British victory - and even inspired a Eurovision-winning song by ABBA.

But, as its 200th anniversary approaches, the field in Belgium which hosted the Battle of Waterloo is only just being fully excavated, as archaeologists bid to uncover how British-led troops beat the odds that day.

The struggle is arguably the most famous battle in modern European history

The Battle of Waterloo was fought on Sunday June 15, 1815.

Despite being surrounded by thousands of French men during the struggle for Hougoumont Farm, the Duke of Wellington's men held out to claim victory - a win which ended Napoleon's rule as Emperor.

A major excavation has now begun at the site by an archeology team largely made up of British soldiers.

The team largely consists of British soldiers Credit: ITV News
The team believes it has found the first musket balls fired at the battle Credit: ITV News
The buildings at Hougoumont Farm are still standing 200 years on Credit: ITV News

They are searching for clues as to how their ancestors-in-arms managed to overpower the French, despite being significantly overpowered.

The first scientific survey is also being carried out at the field - and those involved believe they may have even found the very first musket balls fired during the fighting.

Full report by ITV News correspondent Paul Davies: