Siston, along with much of England and Wales, is in urgent need of rainfall, so the recent rain is very welcome. The turf and topsoil in the Glebe Fields have developed numerous cracks, some deeper and more extensive than any I have observed in 25 years. Although the wind and rain did not prevent work from continuing today, the heavy soil conditions made excavation more challenging. Work was eventually suspended because the material could not be effectively sieved, and everyone was thoroughly soaked.
Nonetheless, it was a productive day. Jen successfully cleaned back TR 49, where we hope to establish the direction of the wall structure first identified to the south in TR 46. Although the distinction is difficult to discern in the attached image, clear differences in soil and clay tones are present; however, it remains uncertain how diagnostically significant these differences will ultimately prove to be.
Zillah found a beautifully coloured flint whose shape, use, and age require expert analysis. However, our research suggests that it may be a ‘Bullhead’ flint from the Thames Basin, known for its strength and durability. This may be relatively rare find, but for now we can simply appreciate its beauty and practical use as a tool.
'Bullhead' flint? we think so. The image doesn't do it justice, the orange and reds are really vivid, also the cortex is terracotta colour rather than white.
Trench TR49 spot the different soil colours
David