Excavations at a Roman site have revealed the "Pompeii of the north", delighted archaeologists said.

The spectacular discoveries at Binchester Roman Fort near Bishop Auckland, County Durham, date back some 1,800 years and include one of the earliest pieces of evidence for Christianity in Roman Britain in the shape of a silver ring.

The archaeologists have discovered a bath house with seven-foot-high walls, which were once covered with brightly-painted designs, and the original floor, doorways and window openings.

Dr David Mason, principal archaeologist for Durham County Council, said: "These findings are hugely significant as they are virtually intact and present a graphic illustration of life under the Roman Empire.

"They are so stunning and spectacular that we can claim we have our very own 'Pompeii of the north' right on our doorstep."

A joint project to explore the site between the county council, Durham University, local enthusiasts and Amercian university students is now in its sixth year.

Last year Alex Kirton, 20, from Hertfordshire, discovered a carved sandstone head at Binchester, which was believed to be a Geordie Roman god that probably was worshipped locally.

Project co-ordinator, Dr David Petts, lecturer in archaeology at Durham, said: "Our excavations have uncovered parts of one of the best preserved Roman buildings in Britain."