Day 3: Areas of burning and areas for sampling.

As we dig down further we are beginning to unearth some really interesting finds and features. Read on to find out more about some of the things we have found so far and remember to subscribe to this blog and our social media to get regular updates of our finds so far...

Today, all of the students received their Skills Passports; an essential piece of documentation as part of a scheme led by BAJR where students record the skills they have learnt in order to prove their capability to future employers. Most of the students have stayed working on the same features and have all achieved the level of novice trowelling already. Today, some also began learning new skills in planning and recording of features, and how to write context sheets.

In Trench 1 we have made significant progress in many areas. Excavation continued in the square-shaped room feature. Discoveries include a number of stone roof tiles, a large piece of the rim of a green glazed pot together with large quantities of animal bones. Because of the unusually dark colour of the soil in this room together with the fact that it differs significantly from the exterior soil, environmental samples were taken. Elsewhere in Trench 1, more parts of the culvert have been uncovered across multiple areas of the site.

In Trench 2, we have begun to uncover a cobbled surface beneath areas of the burning. Nearby, we have discovered multiple wall features which might correspond into rooms. At the moment, we still have more excavating to do it fully characterise these features. Finds from Trench 2 have been varied but mostly consist of large quantities of pottery, brick, animal bone, clay pipe and shell. The finds appear to be of different periods and relate to the differ according to context. As we excavate further we hope to have a better idea about the nature of this area. Theories currently circulating include the possibility that we are excavating a kitchen/medieval service spaces or possibly an area used for industrial purposes. We will keep you posted on how this progresses.

Also out today was our drone piloted by Dr Paolo Forlin. When we get a hold of the photos we will post them for you all to see. They should be a really helpful guide to understanding the site more holistically.