June 2006
During June most of the digging has focussed on exploring the north side of the villa in the new extension to trench 7. The new extension (10m by 10m ) was created when the digger removed a large area of topsoil in April and initial excavation has revealed a large flat area of what appears to be a mixture of building rubble and flint. Within the trench evidence of a wall is now emerging, forming part of a corridor along the north side of the villa and joining with the western end of the wall which had previously been excavated around the stokeroom area.
Northern corridor wall - western end of wall under black plastic in background.
A deposit of broken tile has also been uncovered in the new extension to trench 7 and is of particular interest as it is within one of the rooms enclosed by the north wall which is unusual for the site. Most of the tiles are roof tiles but there are several that may be floor tiles. Many of the tiles show interesting surface markings which may be either a makers mark or a decorative pattern for the roof. One tile shows sandal stud and paw imprints, though it is not known whether these are deliberate or accidental.
Tiles in trench 7 extension
The remainder of the trench 7 extension is also now revealing a variety of finds including an area containing oyster shells and pottery.
Work has also continued excavating the area at the north end of the stokeroom with many interesting finds still emerging, including an animal skull probably of an ox or cow, along with many other bones and pottery.
Ox or cow skull
Animal teeth
Other areas are still being excavated including an area at the edge of the ditch and an area outside the southern corridor wall.
The excavation is open to the public on Sunday 16th and Sunday 23rd July as part of National Archaeology Week. If you are interested in coming to the open day or taking part in the dig please contact us.