July 2007

TOP ARCHAEOLOGICAL FIND AT PODE HOLE

The well preserved remains of a man, thought to have lived more than 3,500 years ago, have recently been discovered at Aggregate Industries’ company, Bardon Aggregates’ Pode Hole Farm in Thorney near Peterborough.

The skeleton, which is thought to be from the Middle Bronze Age, was uncovered by Phoenix Consulting Archaeology Ltd, during routine archaeological excavation work carried out at the quarry under the terms of the planning consent.

Fred Dooris, Pode Hole's quarry manager, said: “The discovery is very exciting. There have been a number of excavations around the quarry with items such as Bronze Age axes, palstaves, spear heads and an anvil all being found close to the area. Items such as the skeleton and the communities work tools give us a unique insight into the lives of our ancestors.”

Lead archaeologist, Andy Richmond, said: “It is clear from aerial photographs showing 'crop marks', that the area includes potential burial grounds. Crop marks result from the different depths of root growth through layers of soil over time. These marks, which are not visible on the ground, can be seen on aerial photographs as differing densities of colour.

Measuring approximately 20 metres across, these particular crop mark circles are called 'round barrows' and were burial sites for important members of the community.

Andy continues: “The discovery of the whole skeleton, minus the skull, is great. It had been preserved so well thanks to the moisture in the soil around the burial. Our work on site will continue this year and when it is complete, the skeletons and any other finds will be sent for testing to determine age, sex, diet, disease and dental information.”

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