Results of the 2008 Excavations

The site lies in the south-western part of the Roman town, an area last examined in 1963 by Professor Sheppard Frere. Based on his work, key questions to be examined relate to the origins and early development of the Roman town, in particular the question of the date and character of a possible fort, and the transition from the late Roman to the Anglo-Saxon period. So far, excavation has concentrated on examining spreads of rubble, probably derived from Roman buildings, which may have been used to support Anglo-Saxon timber structures. At the east end of the site part of the main north-south road which bisected the Roman town has also been found.

Large quantities of pottery and animal bones have been recovered. The pottery is mostly of late Roman date but includes some Anglo-Saxon sherds, and Roman building material (brick and tile) is also common. Other objects found include Roman coins, an intaglio from a signet ring, part of a small bronze figurine and personal items such as hairpins and tweezers. Saxon finds include objects associated with spinning and weaving and part of a tool, perhaps a rake, of deer antler.

Excavations will continue on this site in 2009 to enable more of its story to be revealed.

Read about the geophysical survey campaign of 2008.

The 2008 group photograpg
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