Latest publication

A paper on AS' excavations at the Old Bell in Marham, Norfolk has recently been published in the journal Norfolk Archaeology

The excavation of this former Public House site in Marham revealed extensive and well-preserved Saxon and medieval remains. Post-excavation analysis identified five distinct phases of activity, with the earliest occurring in the mid Saxon period. This comprised a large sunken-featured building, which retained good evidence of its original superstructure (postholes and foundations for wattle and daub walls) and internal features (a floor surface, hearth and entrance step). Pottery finds suggested that the building was occupied around the 8^th or early 9^th century AD. A clay loom-weight, used during textile weaving, was found resting on the floor of the building, and buried in the backfill of the structure was the articulated skeleton of a small dog – possibly a deliberate 'ritual' deposit intended to mark the closure/end of use of the building.

Activity continued in the later Saxon period as is evidenced by a further possible sunken-featured building and an unusual structure which may represent the remains of a cellared-building.

During the third phase of activity, dated to the late Saxon period, the site was dominated by a large enclosure surrounded by a substantial boundary ditch. Within the enclosure, and aligned with respect for its entrance, were two large, deep pits, which may have held substantial timber posts, possibly part of a large building. This suggests the presence of a dwelling of elevated, possibly thegnly status.

The enclosure appears to have been modified at a later date and the culmination of activity in the Saxo-Norman period is the division of the western part of the site into plots flanking the existing road.

The paper has been published in the latest edition of Norfolk Archaeology, the journal of the Norfolk and Norwich Archaeological Society.