Well, we have made it to the end of the exploration, leaving the backfilling, re-turfing, dismantling the tent and returning all the kit to store in Cotherstone for the weekend. I think it has been a success. Twenty-two members and two students contributed. It was pleasing to see such commitment and enthusiasm despite the sometimes inclement weather. It shows that there is a future for SWAAG although we still need more help in running the group.
As far as archaeology is concerned, we achieved the objective of determining the nature of the ‘surface’ identified by the geophys, although whether it really is a surface is a moot point; maybe it is man-made, maybe it is geological. Thanks to Andrea & Rich in particular.
The main trench is similarly enigmatic; the surveys by Durham Uni and ourselves strongly suggest an Iron Age defended settlement. I still think that the site is a defended settlement of some period, maybe Iron Age, maybe even Romano-British, perhaps associated with the Hagg site in some way, but we haven’t found any evidence for occupation at all. The main finds are some nice flints (see the rather poor photo) but these don’t necessarily mean habitation here. Tony thinks the test pit soil, containing flakes of charcoal, might provide a clue so we will have a bag-full subjected to environmental analysis.
So like many digs, we now have more questions than answers. Hopefully, many will be resolved if we are able to dig here again next year.
Thanks to those who turned out today, much appreciated.
Tomorrow we begin tidying up, from 9am on.
To those not joining us, have a good weekend.
Alan
