C O N T E N T S 1 Contents 2 Editorial 3 From the Chair David Jennings 4 From the Finds Tray 6 Registered Archaeological Organisations: a review Tim Howard 7 News from IFA – Conference, website and SALON 8 The Diggers Forum and Invisible Diggers 9 Inclusive, Accessible Archaeology Tim Phillips page 13 10 Ancient monuments and archaeological areas: a magistrate’s decision Roger Thomas 11 Funding and training: bursaries for graduate trainees and other IFA initiatives Kate Geary 12 Taking down the fences: promoting prehistory at English Heritage Jonathan Last 13 The Prehistoric Funerary and Ritual project in Wales Matthew Ritchie page 18 14 Palaeoenvironment, the historic environment and wildlife conservation Elizabeth Pearson 15 Welcome to the Ice Age: the National Ice Age NetworkJenni Chambers 16 The Heart of Neolithic Orkney: World Heritage Site Research Agenda Sally Foster 18 Going grey: Prehistory and the potential of grey literature Richard Bradley 20 New Iron Age finds from Warwickshire Stuart Palmer page 20 21 Three Iron Age farms in Northamptonshire, or is it one? Andy Mudd 22 A very special place: prehistory in the Dee valley, northeast Scotland Shannon Fraser 24 Iron Age buildings, burials and metal-working at Knowe of Skea Ness, Orkney Hazel Moore and Graeme Wilson 26 A community approach to prehistoric rock art Tertia Barnett 28 Northern Lights: Shetland’s prehistory Val Turner 30 Bronze Age lowland field systems in Southern England Dave Yates 32 A ritual landscape at Boscombe Down Andy Manning 34 Prehistoric flints: an undervalued resource? Chris Butler 35 Prehistoric artefacts and the Portable Antiquities Scheme Sally Worrell 36 Building materials for the archaeologist Michael Nevell page 26 38 Science pages: Dating Scotland’s past: the National Museums’ of Scotland C14 dating programmes Alison Sheridan 41 Jobs in British archaeology 2004 James Drummond Murray 42 New (prehistoric) books reviewed 43 Reviews 48 New members 49 Members news Spring 2005 Number 56 1 l Prehistoric Britainproved another popular topic for thisTAbrings you news of the recent action on the F r o m t h e C h a i r The Archaeologist, especially with Scottish colleagues, disciplinary side, our new Diggers’ Forum Group, a who have been forthcoming on a range of proposed bursary scheme for workplace trainees, significant projects. These include a programme of new ways to support and promote Registered D a v i d J e n n i n g s C14 dating that proved that wooden items in the Archaeological Organisations, and an introduction National Museum of Scotland are some of the to the e-newsletter we now offer IFAmembers in a earliest equipment in Europe, World Heritage Status conjunction with the Society of Antiquaries of for spectacular sites on Orkney, and Shetland’s London. Our Annual Conference in Winchester was vibrant research activity. In England in particular the best attended that we have known for many we see some of the fruits of developer-funded years and had the added glamour of a ministerial archaeology. Richard Bradley sets out a few of the visit in addition to many excellent archaeological provisional results of his survey of grey literature presentations. Apart from not being able to use the This year’s annual conference at University College and how this is changing interpretation of some new conference facilities we expected, one Winchester was an excellent show case for the monument types, compilation of data on lowly field downside of otherwise fine Winchester hospitality i diversity, strength and vitality of IFAand its systems reaps unexpected dividends, and routine was short opening hours in the bar. Next year we membership. The conference theme was evaluations in the Midlands come up with more are planning on holding the conference at appropriately focused on working in historic towns, than expected in Northamptonshire and Edinburgh, and Scottish colleagues assure us that although as you might anticipate, sessions also Warwickshire. For English Heritage, new Prehistory such a disaster would never happen there. covered a wide range of other subjects. tsar Jonathan Last describes how prehistoric archaeology will be promoted, and Matthew Ritchie r Martin Biddle delivered a suitably thought- is able to report on Cadw’s successful survey of provoking opening address, sparking debate, and prehistoric funerary and ritual sites. on the second day proceedings were opened by a Alison Taylor speech from Tessa Jowell, Minister for Culture, Tessa Jowell, Peter Hinton and Life within IFAhas already been busy this year, and [email protected] Media and Sport. This latter event represented a Paul Light (Principal, University significant ‘coming-of-age’ for the Institute and the College, Winchester) at the o sector, demonstrating the incremental and Winchester conference progressive steps that have been taken to move the Photograph: Nick Davis historic environment and archaeology up the political agenda. The Minister’s general message was positive and presaged the release of her essay on the historic and built environment, Better Places We continue to reappraise and amend our to Live. procedures: changes are being drawn up to increase the effectiveness of our disciplinary procedure t It is fashionable to be cynical regarding the political following last year’s amendments to the RAO response to the archaeological sector, however, if complaints process. In the meantime we continue to this stance is too stringently upheld, we lose our regulate standards and investigate lack of capacity for a genuine dialogue with government compliance both individually and corporately. that can create the better future for both archaeology and archaeologists. The Diggers’ Forum is now up and running and i needs further active support to assist with our At the time of writing the outcome of the election is initiatives in relation to pay and conditions, so Milling around at Winchester (the unknown, but the central message is clear – incisive, please get involved. Finally, we remain in building in polythene should have constructive and persistent engagement by IFAwith constructive dialogue regarding implementation of been a new conference facility) government is critical to the future of our past. the Valletta Convention and development of an Wherever possible this lobbying needs to be accreditation scheme for professional practice. d undertaken in conjunction with other heritage Notes to contributors bodies; as Tim Howard says (p6), we need to take a As ever, our vision is cast over a wide horizon – you leaf out of the book of other professions and speak would expect nothing less given the current state of Themes and deadlines Contributions and letter/emailsare always welcome. EDITED by Alison Taylor, IFA, with a common voice. the profession. Therefore progress seems slow, with Short articles (c. 1000 words) are preferred. They SHES, University of Reading, Summer: Working in historic towns our goals constantly distant mirages; but this is should be sent as an email attachment, which must Whiteknights, PO Box 227 deadline: 15 June 2005 Our agenda remain consistent with previous unduly negative, and with enthusiasm to slake our include captions and credits for illustrations. The editor READING RG6 6AB statements of our ten-year plan. However, it is thirst we will gradually refine image into reality. So Autumn: Working with finds will edit and shorten if necessary. Illustrations are very worth re-stating some key issues occupying let’s stick at it! E deadline: 15 September 2005 important. These are best supplied as originals or on DESIGNED and TYPESET by Council’s thoughts. As many will be aware from CD, scanned at a minimum of 500kb. More detailed Sue Cawood subscription renewal literature, attracting new David Jennings Notes for contributorsfor each issue are available from membership is a critical to our plans, so again I Chair, IFA the editor. PRINTED by Charlesworth would ask everyone to assist with recruitment. [email protected] 2 The Archaeologist Spring 2005 Number 56 3 FROM THE FINDS TRAY Illustration by Jo Richards Iron Age find from Devon The Portable Antiquities Scheme has recorded this important finds dated to the IFAFinds Group La Tène period. Shaped like a The summer meeting, on ‘Buildings mushroom, it is a cast copper Yearbook 2005 errata Archaeology’, held jointly with the alloy decorative stud, with Tim Francis, IFAHon Legal Advisor Buildings Archaeology Group, will be on ‘trumpet voids’ decorating the Archaeology World Report magazine Tim Francis has now moved to Gaston Whybrew Thursday 9 June 2005 at Mortimer Wheeler top surface. Some have remains of red enamel still in place. This bi-monthly magazine aims to introduce the world of Solicitors, Westwood Park, London Road, Great House, LAARC, London. It will be It will go on display in the Royal Albert Memorial Museum field archaeology to the public and the academic alike. The Horkesley, Colchester, CO6 4BS tel 01206 274153. followed, probably in October, with a as part of the ‘Objects of Desire’ exhibition, which will first three issues include recent archaeology from Antarctica, He is still available to offer free legal advice to IFA practical session in York or Leicester. If you highlight archaeological objects, including treasure, recently Rock art in South Africa, Japanese Jomon period sites, and members (up to 30 minutes, on archaeological or have ideas for future meetings (sessions on acquired by the museum. JD Hill, British Museum, thinks we the archaeology of second world war military earthworks in non-archaeological matters) by phone or personal glass and residues have been suggested) should look to the Continent for a parallel for this lovely Europe. IFAmembers can receive the first three editions for visit. If further legal action is required discounted please let us know. As usual the AGM will artefact; so more research will be carried out. £8 (postage and packaging free). We would also like to hear rates (10%) will apply be slotted in before lunch. Again, the if you would like to contribute or to subscribe. Nicola Powell committee will be looking for new Hon Secretary, Archaeology World Report, 2 White Well Finds Liaison Officer, Devon members so if you are interested, contact Farm Cottages, Llancarfan Lane, Bonvilston, Vale of the Hon Secretary. We will be looking for a Library of unpublished fieldwork reports Glamorgan, CF5 6TQ, tel: 01446 781585 new Treasurer and Membership Secretary. It is widely recognised that archaeological [email protected] research is hampered by difficult access to Nicola Powell http://www.geocities.com/archaeologyworldreport/ fieldwork reports. ‘Grey literature’ has limited [email protected] Karl-James Langford circulation and is often invisible to the Hague Convention news research community. This new electronic Abriefing on UK progress towards ratification of the 1954 Hague library delivers a growing number of such Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of reports to researchers. It brings together Armed Conflict and its two protocols was held at DCMS in March, Photograph credits unpublished reports supplied to the ADS organised by the British Red Cross in association with DCMS and Your Editor allowed the previous Yearbook from larger fieldwork archives which may Listing is changing FCO. Lord McIntosh re-affirmed the Government’s intention to cover illustrations to be reproduced on p 11 contain additional data, for example the On 1 April DCMS handed administration of listing and ratify these important treaties, as announced last May, but there of the 2005 Yearbook and directory without Channel Tunnel Rail Link archive, with others scheduling to English Heritage, and some new procedures would need to be primary legislation. This delay is unfortunate, as further acknowledgement, whereas I should submitted through OASIS. Reports so far came into operation. There will now be more consultation with UNESCO has organised a first meeting of ratified partners in have thanked Wessex Archaeology, available were contributed by AOC owners before their property is listed, and they will receive October and the fact that Britain is not yet a party may affect its Archaeoptics Ltd and Hampshire County Archaeology, Canterbury Archaeological more information about its historical importance. Work is in ability to influence decisions on institutional matters. However, Museum Service for their excellent images. Trust, Geophysical Surveys of Bradford (GSB), progress towards a unified register of scheduled ancient Britain could still attend as an observer and join in discussions. Hereford and Worcester County Council, monuments, listed buildings and historic parks, gardens and Other presentations from Chris Whomersley (Foreign and MoLAS, Oxford Archaeology, Suffolk County battlefields. Free leaflets about proposed changes are available Commonwealth Office), Patrick Boylan and Major General (retired) Council Archaeological Services, ULAS and from customers@english- Tony Rogers (University of Cambridge) explained the background Wessex Archaeology heritage.org.uk, or can be to the Convention, benefits of ratification, and practical implications downloaded from www.english- Contact: Catherine Hardman for the armed forces. It was recognised that manuals and education heritage.org.uk. ([email protected]) For OASIS contact Mark for military personnel are essential, and IFAand other Barratt, ([email protected]) archaeological bodies offered their help when required. They also http://ads.ahds.ac.uk/catalogue/library/ offered to develop a capacity for immediate response in the event of greylit/ future conflicts, to help avoid debacles like Iraq. Afurther meeting Arnos Vale cemetery, Bristol – to discuss practical implications of ratification is scheduled for later part of the new list © English William Kilbride this year. Heritage Archaeology Data Service [email protected] Meanwhile, it was reported that, at the UN war crimes tribunal at The Hague, a retired Yugoslav senior officer was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment for the 1991 Yugoslav army bombardment of the Old Town of Dubrovnik, despite his argument of military necessity. 4 The Archaeologist Spring 2005 Number 56 5 Registered Archaeological Organisations: N e w s f r o m I FA a review Alison Taylor R Tim Howard, a practising Barrister since 1981, especially where universities are involved in fieldwork, as John Hunter described in TA55. made the (rather strange) decision that he would Annual Conference 2005 IFAhas now joined SALin the venture, making the like a career in archaeology, and so embarked With regard to pricing, the RAO committee has service available to all IFAmembers who want to on the Oxford University Diploma in fixed annual registration fees for exclusively Well over 400 archaeologists were drawn to receive it, setting out to cover the activities of IFA Professional Archaeology. As part of this course educational or curatorial organisations at £105 – a Winchester to enjoy a conference on the theme and its members (in particular its RAOs), and he had a three month placement with IFA, with timely riposte to those who dismiss the scheme as ‘Working in Historic Towns’. The key note paper by ensuring that our members and the rest of the world an IFAmoney-making exercise. However, there is Martin Biddle included a challenge to archaeologists know what we are doing. One intention is to gather the remit of assessing the impact of the RAO no such thing as a free launch. Effective (especially curators) working in a developer-funded early news of discoveries by RAOs and give them scheme and how it can be improved and administration and policing (which are central to world to match the research objectives of earlier the right sort of publicity, but publications, promoted. any effective scheme) involve a significant work. The speech by Tessa Jowell also created conferences, public events etc can all be promoted. A investment in time and money. interest, though perhaps not as much controversy as The dual purpose therefore is to serve our His broad conclusions are that it is a worthwhile feared. In between there were at least 3 parallel membership by providing them with information scheme that needs careful consideration in order to Great strides have been taken in overhauling the sessions for 3 days, covering issues that included the and news, and also by publicising their activities. expand membership in curatorial and educational Complaints Procedure (TA55), introducing clear problems of working on road schemes, how to deal Stories can be emailed by any IFAmember, whether sectors, and more promotion both within and benchmarks for registration (with a system to with archaeological archives, results of recent work in on the circulation list or not. We do hope you will outside the profession. IFAmust also demonstrate prevent ‘serial defaulters’ from registering) with our smaller towns, post-medieval burials and (most use this e-newsletter to keep each other and the its will and capacity to enforce standards in order to revised guidance notes. Procedural reform has been popular of all), some of the outstanding discoveries wider world in touch with developments within the build confidence, but the main thrust should be allied to a renewed resolve to ensure that IFAdoes of 2004. There will be write-ups of some sessions in archaeological community. encouragement of continual improvements. RAOs not shirk firm action in appropriate cases. Central to the summer issue of The Archaeologist, and papers should be widely inclusive and should personify the operation of the Register is the issue of trust submitted will be published on the IFAwebsite. To add yourself to the email distribution, email O the core values of the whole sector. which is fundamental to any professional [email protected]. To send news, comments relationship. The Institute must be able to rely upon etc, email Chris Catling at [email protected]. If The RAO scheme, since its inception in 1996, has information given by organisations, and those that SALON-IFA: you don’t have a personal account, why not ask been open to all organisations involved in provide false information will be removed from the A free new membership service your employer or a friend to receive it for your archaeology, but the accent has been on the Register. attention? commercial sector. Tim has been involved in talks The current SALON (Society of Antiquaries of with ALGAO over how IFAcan move forward with Everyone agrees on the need for professional London Online Newsletter) is a popular news that organisation, for traditionally curators have integrity, but those who oppose the RAO scheme service provided by the Society of Antiquaries of Website resisted application of common standards. and IFAmembership should ponder the London (SAL) and sent to the email boxes of all However, now local authorities are using IFA alternatives. If the need for regulation is agreed, but Fellows (FSAs) who want it, 25 times each year. IFA’s website, www.archaeologists.net, re-vamped standards and RAO registration to improve and the objection is to the IFAand those who run it, the Edited by Christopher Catling, it covers by CBAlast autumn, is now carrying more news maintain the quality of planning-related work, it is objectors are missing the point. It is not obligatory governmental consultations and new legislation and information than ever before, and we want to crucial that they sign up to the same rules. Local for members of a profession to like each other. The (actual and proposed), news and reviews of keep it as data rich as we can manage. We see the government archaeology services are under bonhomie of the Bar is often superficial but this conferences, books, discoveries and TV site as an important part of IFA’s publication pressure and a clear mark of professional standing rarely prevents the profession uniting in pursuit of programmes, job vacancies, deaths, issues of programme, hosting many IFAdocuments and can only be beneficial, whether in the Council common interests. Lawyers do not under-cut each controversy within heritage, and other items that publications (some duplicated in print, some only Chamber, the Inquiry room or at the information other and they consistently speak with one voice in either relate to its Fellows or to their interests. The available digitally) and with useful links to a desk. furtherance of professional interests. Afragmented readership extends beyond Fellows to those in growing number of other archaeological archaeological profession plays into the hands of government departments, the press and other organisations. If you have news, papers, or other So far as the educational world is concerned, IFAis insincere politicians and unscrupulous developers. decision-makers. It is therefore valuable in items you are willing to share, send them to not seeking to regulate teaching, but that does not Without IFA, securing a fair deal for the profession spreading news, forming opinions, and generally [email protected], and I will try to mean that professional regulation has no relevance, would be all the harder. expressing views from the heritage sector. include them. 6 The Archaeologist Spring 2005 Number 56 7 T h e ’ F o r u m I N C L U S I V E , s THE INVISIBLE DIGGERS r A C C E S S I B L E , Research into the reality of Second Meeting – 19 February 2005 e Professional Contract Archaeology g There was excited apprehension prior in the UK ARCHAEOLOGY to this meeting. Having made progress g last October it was important to Tim Phillips maintain that momentum to establish In 2002 I left full-time commercial archaeology to i the basic remit of the Diggers’ Forum. work on a PhD at the University of Southampton. D To avoid becoming purely London- My aim was to document issues within the based we are committed to holding the profession as seen by those at the coalface.I next meeting outside London and will believe this project will illuminate serious issues The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA1995) and encourage formation of regional groups. that need to be addressed.My methods combine its amendment the Special Educational Needs and ‘unstructured’interviews with an online survey Disability Act (2001) is now in force, with legislation Healthy and Safety and other sociological research tools. that requires employers and educational institutions Surveying at the Some site staff reported avoidable accidents but to make reasonable adjustments to ensure that Silchester Field where stringent H&S had been applied and extra When asked how long they intend to stay ‘disabled persons are not placed at a substantial School (Dept of PPE required, this was not always appropriate and within commercial archaeology, 31.85% said disadvantage in comparison to persons who are not Archaeology, actually made the working environment more they are trying to get out now or in the next disabled’. Archaeology therefore faces quite a University of unpleasant. We will examine the current situation year or two, 42% of these being aged 26-30. The challenge, as Archaeology Labour Market Intelligence, Guidelines will be produced to promote good Reading) and insist that adequate, but balanced and impression is that a large number of graduates 2002/03revealed that just 0.34% of professional practice, and publications through international appropriate, H&S be a priority for all employers. enter the profession, only to remain until failure archaeologists are disabled as defined by DDA1995, journals will address academic and professional Training to secure promotion or improved pay drives as are 3% of volunteers. audiences in archaeology and disability studies. The Many units were making the right noises, but them elsewhere. When asked what they hated archaeological community will be involved through failing to deliver. The Diggers’ Forum will most – Pay; Quality of management/staff; bad The problem starts in the universities, so Roberta training events, national conferences, newsletters cooperate with other bodies to ensure that weather; ‘incestuous’ relationships; All or none Gilchrist at Reading has been awarded funding and on the web. initiatives, such as the one recently announced by of the above; 19% of the 26-30 year olds planning from the Higher Education Funding Council for IFA, are targeted appropriately. to leave said quality of management/staff; 29% England (FDTL5), for developments in teaching and What the project now needs is more stories and case said Pay and 52% ‘All of the above’. learning concerning Archaeology and Disability in histories from individuals with disabilities, whether IFA Council collaboration with the Inclusive Environments they have succeeded in archaeological careers or The Forum will ensure that representation of site 37% believe that a rethink is needed to prevent Research Group (Reading), and with Bournemouth been forced to give up. I am particularly interested staff and finds specialists is increased within IFA future crisis, and 35% believe it is already in University. IFA, CBA, English Heritage and Oxford in those who have been disabled during (especially Council, a key to genuine improvement in our crisis. However, of the latter group only 21% are Archaeology are all supporting this project. if because of) their career, and what their experience working lives and the credibility of IFA. currently trying to get out of the profession, has been. Such disabilities may be something as Furthermore, we will work with Prospect in which supports the image of a dedicated The aim is to widen participation by challenging the common as a bad back that stops active fieldwork support of its proposed National Pay Agreement. workforce. 28% of under-30s are IFAmembers; stereotype of archaeology as a field discipline that (just quantifying this will be enlightening for our Keep an eye on our page on the IFAwebsite for any 16% can’t afford to join; 15% feel the IFAisn’t excludes disabled participants. The dual issues of profession), or may be a perceived disability that in more news and information about membership – relevant to them; 7% would never join, but 31% disability and transferable skills will be addressed fact enhances other skills. This includes registered http://www.archaeologists.net/diggers. We hope would consider it. In comparison, 33% of 31-40 in archaeological fieldwork teaching, but awareness disabled and physical or mental disabilities that to see you at the next meeting. year-olds are IFAmembers and 32% would of disability issues throughout the profession must could impair working (details on our website). consider joining. be raised. Paul Everill If you have a story to tell I would love to hear from Secretary, Diggers’ Forum For a fuller report and the opportunity to I began the survey in collaboration with IFAby a you before the end of June when this phase of the contribute opinions and experiences visit questionnaire to 48 Registered Archaeological project ends. www.invisiblediggers.net. Organisations to assess the situation within the commercial sector. Working with specialists in Tim Phillips Department of Archaeology, Inclusive Environments (directed by Geoff Cook), Project Officer University of Southampton, we are now analysing and characterising Department of Archaeology, University of Reading Avenue Campus, Highfield, archaeological activities, skills and environments. A Whiteknights, PO Box 227 Southampton, SO17 1BJ range of field activities will be addressed, including Reading RG6 6AB [email protected] excavation and recording, field survey, instrument survey, environmental sampling and processing of Phone 0118 378 8293 artefacts. Through controlled testing and field trials, Fax 0118 378 6718 Archaeological experience within survey respondents. we will develop a self-assessment tool kit for Email [email protected] Note the dramatic drop after 5 years. physical and psychological abilities. Website www.hca.heacademy/access-archaeology 8 The Archaeologist Spring 2005 Number 56 9 & A R C H A E O L O G I C A L A R E A S S Ancient monuments and archaeological areas: site? What would it cost to restore the site? What is Notes Mr Smith’s income? At what stage was the guilty 1.‘Triable either way’ means that an offence can be tried a magistrate’s decision Roger Thomas plea entered? What benefit, if any, did Mr Smith either in the Magistrates’ Court (‘summary trial’) or in T gain by ignoring the restrictions? Taking account of the Crown Court (‘on indictment’, in front of a judge the fact that Mr Smith stopped the works when and jury). The choice usually lies with the defendant. required to do so, and assuming that he is 2.On conviction in a Magistrates’ Court, the magistrates N Inthe April 2004 issue of The Magistrate, to this demand, and subsequently allowed comfortably off, my starting point after a prompt can commit the case to the Crown Court for sentencing. (magistrates’equivalent of TA), Anna Winstanley archaeologists onto the site to record the remains guilty plea would be in the region of £2500 plus The Crown Court has the power to impose heavier (barrister, formerly with English Heritage)andRoger which had been exposed. costs, but the answer to the questions I pose above sentences, so the magistrates will do this if they consider Thomas(English Heritage) wrote a piece on Protecting could dramatically alter that. That figure is reached the offence to be so serious that their own sentencing E our heritage, explaining the legislation that protects The inspector interviewed Mr Smith under caution. after the maximum reduction of 50% that may be powers are inadequate. buried sites. TheMagistrate invited its readers to study Mr Smith said he had understood the scheduling allowed in either-way cases following a timely 3.A‘discount’ in the sentence may be given if a defendant a fictitious ancient monuments offence and to compare only to apply to visible features, and that he did not guilty plea (3). pleads guilty at an early stage. M the sentence they would give on conviction to the realise that the area affected by his landscaping was decision by a District Judge. This piece is reproduced by protected or archaeologically sensitive. Mr Smith kind permission of The Magistrate,with grateful pleaded guilty in the magistrates’ court to an thanks to its Editor. offence under s. 2 of the AMAAA1979. Mr Smith U has one previous conviction (for driving without CASE SCENARIO insurance) dating to 1984. Funding and training: When Mr and Mrs Smith purchased a house and land they were aware that part of the land was SENTENCING CONSIDERATIONS workplace learning bursaries and other IFA initiatives Kate Geary Nscheduled under the Ancient Monuments and District Judge Stephen Day’s response Archaeological Areas Act (AMAAA) 1979. The The first thing to establish when dealing with an monument consists of the remains of a medieval unusual offence is the maximum penalty and in this Kate joined the staff of IFA in January, with special My immediate task is to use a project development settlement with ditches and banks. But much of the case it is an unlimited fine on conviction on responsibility for initiatives related to training and grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund to develop a Oarchaeological importance of the monument derives indictment or the statutory maximum, currently standards. Prior to this, after an initial stint as an bid to fund workplace learning bursaries. If from buried remains of which no trace is visible £5000, on summary conviction. As it is triable either archaeological assistant at the Snowdonia National successful, around ten bursaries a year will be above the ground. way (1), there is the option of committing for Park, she spent ten years as SMR Officer at the available to fund training which addresses sentence (2), but as it does not carry imprisonment, Gwynedd Archaeological Trust before moving to identified skills gaps in the archaeological sector. M When an English Heritage Field Monument Warden not all community penalties are available in either Devon County Council in 2003, to work on their The development project has included extensive (FMW) visited the Smiths, they mentioned that they the magistrates’ court or the Crown Court. The SMR. As chair of the IFA Wales group from 1999 to consultation and is now moving on to consider in Kate Geary were planning to landscape some of their land and second task is to analyse the facts of the offence to 2003, she was actively involved in development of detail how the bursaries will work. to construct an ornamental pond. The FMW assess its seriousness before going on to consider Welsh research agenda. During her time at GAT, she reminded them of the need to obtain scheduled the means of the defendant, the timeliness of the was Prospect representative for six years and co- I will also be working on extending the professional monument consent (SMC) for any works which plea and other personal factors. The previous leader of the Bangor branch of the Young short courses available through partner universities Taffected the scheduled area. conviction is totally irrelevant. Here the relevant Archaeologists Club. After less than two months in and on developing a practice qualification for factor concerning the offences seems to be that Mr her new job, this is her first report. archaeology, again based on National Occupational In mid-2002, Mr and Mrs Smith engaged a Smith knew in 2001 that scheduled monument Standards. As with any IFAinitiative, these Nlandscape architect. He considered that the work consent was needed and had known from the time Training is a major issue facing British archaeology developments must reflect the concerns of the did not require planning permission, so work of purchase of the property that part of the land and in particular IFA, for it is a means to raise membership, so if you would like to comment on started. Apparently at the request of Mr and Mrs was scheduled under AMAAA. Mr Smith was not standards and to improve the professional the bursaries, the CPD scheme or any other issues Smith, the earthmoving involved was designed to totally cavalier in his approach as the earthmoving standing of archaeologists. VariousTAarticles have relating to training and career development, do get Eavoid visible features but it did affect a large area of works were planned to avoid the visible parts of the reported on initiatives by the IFAin partnership in touch. invisible buried remains. There is some evidence monument. However, damage was done and it with the Archaeology Training Forum, CHNTO that Mr and Mrs Smith had pushed for the work to could have been avoided had Mr Smith checked and others. This has included developing National Training, professional standards and pay are Istart quickly, to get the earthmoving done before with English Heritage. Ownership of such a Occupations Standards for archaeology inextricably linked. Much of IFA’s work to improve wet autumn weather. property carries obligations, which the court must (www.chnto.co.uk/development/nos.html), a pilot pay and conditions is dependent on comparisons C reinforce with appropriate sanctions. Mr Smith was for online recording of CPD and a manual for with other professions regarding qualifications, Shortly afterwards, English Heritage learned that at the very least grossly negligent in not taking coach-mentoring can be found on IFA’s website. technical skills and experience. For these unauthorised works were taking place. An English elementary steps before starting the work and it These are significant achievements in themselves, comparisons to be valid, we need to be able to Heritage inspector visited and observed that may be that a court could find he deliberately failed but also provide the building blocks for document and accredit these skills in a consistent N damage had already occurred to the buried remains to do so in order to avoid expenditure or development of recognised career structures. My way which is recognised outside the profession. of a medieval building, the foundations of which unwelcome restrictions. role is to ‘implement strategies to develop and promote Change is in the air and I am delighted to be joining had been partly removed. The inspector advised Mr professional standards for historic environment IFAat this exciting time. Aand Mrs Smith that a criminal offence was possibly There are numerous questions, which a court would professionals’, and I will be concentrating on being committed, and that the contractors should be want answered before passing sentence. Was the training, CPD, accreditation and career Kate Geary instructed to stop work. Mr and Mrs Smith acceded damage irreparable? If so, how important is the development issues in general. [email protected] 10 The Archaeologist Spring 2005 Number 56 11 Taking down the fences: The Prehistoric The dramatic pair of standing stones at promoting prehistory at English Heritage Funerary Penrhos Feilw, Anglesey. The Cadw and Ritual Project ‘Caring for...’ series Jonathan Last highlights potential in Wales problems (such as erosion around the Matthew Ritchie base of standing stones) and suggests mitigation strategies. For the last five years Cadw has been funding the © Cadw four Welsh Archaeological Trusts to record and As part of recent re-structuring (from 1 those funded through the grants programmes. This evaluate all prehistoric funerary and ritual sites in April) English Heritage now has Research includes promoting new discoveries, such as the Wales, one of a series of thematic pan-Wales surveys Palaeolithic engravings at Creswell Crags; enabling designed to assess the condition of the known Policy Heads by a mixture of periods and community participation, eg the rock art project archaeological resource through fieldwork. The themes. After just a few days in the job, described by Tertia Barnett (p26); and producing results will improve HERs and the Welsh NMR and Jonathan Last outlines his approach as the innovative syntheses from grey literature, like that will feed into management initiatives (eg agri- new Head of Research Policy for Prehistory. by Dave Yates (p30). environment schemes) and statutory protection. A similar survey of deserted rural settlements will be Almost all the sites listed in the 1882 Ancient ALSF has enormous significance for early prehistory published as a CBAmonograph, while other Monuments Protection Act were prehistoric, partly a in particular, where discoveries have always been projects include Roman vici and road systems and reflection of megaliths being less costly to maintain intimately related to quarrying. New research set to prehistoric defended enclosures. than medieval buildings. Today prehistoric revolutionise Palaeolithic studies, like mapping archaeology has moved beyond a focus on submerged landscapes in the English Channel, is Initial challenges included formulating a common upstanding monuments to recognising the complemented by projects to promote the period survey methodology and reaching a consensus on significance of buried sites, environmental more widely, like the purchase of Boxgrove quarry terminology. Regular meetings between Cadw, Trust sequences and whole landscapes. This is reflected in and the National Ice Age Network (p15). project officers and RCAHMW ensure common the survey and excavation work undertaken by EH standards and easy integration. Interrogating HERs archaeologists and in projects funded by the Historic The properties on Pitt-Rivers’ original schedule and constructing a complete dataset (eg for stone Environment Enabling Programme and the remain key assets of which more could be made. circles) should now be simple. Approximately 7000 Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund Programme The best known, of course, is Stonehenge. In the sites will have been visited and recorded, with (ALSF). Project aims are often guided by research 1880s the landowner resisted the attempts of the completion due in 2006. Site recording is Further Cadw-funded subprojects will arise from frameworks, which EH also facilitates; as well as the government inspector to raise stones and install accompanied by management recommendations the Survey, both typological record enhancement regional frameworks which cover themes (eg policemen, though a fence was not long coming. where appropriate and follow-up scheduling will and individual site conservation schemes. One submarine prehistory), landscapes (eg Avebury) and Today the aim is to remove fences, along with the extend into 2007. Environmental advice and analysis has already occurred: rescue excavation and periods. roads and other modern clutter. Although focusing is provided by the University of Wales, Lampeter. consolidation of a burial cairn in the Brecon on one site risks obscuring the diversity of our Beacons, where accelerated erosion was caused by Increasing public awareness and access to the prehistoric heritage, the improved experience of Information has been disseminated through various visitor numbers. Brecon Beacons National Park and historic environment are key elements of English Stonehenge will offer tremendous opportunities to media. Short notes are included annually within Cambria Archaeology (Dyfed Archaeological Trust) Heritage’s strategy for the next five years, which convey the appeal of prehistory to new audiences. Archaeology in Wales(published by CBACymru), undertook to record and consolidate sensitive areas focuses on a ‘virtuous circle’ of understanding, As well as opening up the landscape we also need with longer discussions in local journals. Abooklet, valuing, caring and enjoying. Today, with only a to open people’s imaginations. Caring for Prehistoric Funerary and Ritual Monuments, Many new sites have indeed been identified during marginal role in the national curriculum, bringing aims to educate and enthuse the public (particularly fieldwork, and this records-based descriptive survey prehistory into the virtuous circle will require better (For details of recent EH-funded projects, see: owners and occupiers of monuments) and describes is geared towards comprehensive enhancement of education, publicity and access. Many themes in http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/admisremote/ appropriate conservation and management HERs, providing a description of the archaeological prehistory resonate with present-day concerns, from ACOnline/HOME.asp) measures. resource in the form of a standardised ‘snapshot in long-term histories of environmental change to time’. biographies of individuals like the Amesbury Further avenues for outreach include the education Archer, perhaps the original economic migrant. The Jonathan Last sector. Consultation demonstrated a demand for Matthew Ritchie challenge is to translate our research into stories that English Heritage wallcharts on regional and/or typological themes Assistant Inspector of Ancient Monuments engage and enthuse new audiences. Fort Cumberland which have a wide range of target age groups and Cadw, Plas Carew Eastney potential uses – and are cheap, can be widely Unit 5/7 Cefn Coed How can English Heritage help promote prehistory? Portsmouth PO4 9LD distributed and can link to the dynamic websites of Parc Nantgarw CF15 7QQ One way is to treat outreach as an integral element the Trusts. It is expected that other community 01443336077 of projects, both those undertaken in house and [email protected] based initiatives will be developed. [email protected] 12 The Archaeologist Spring 2005 Number 56 13 WELCOME TO THE ICE AGE: the National Ice Age Network Pa l a e o e n v i r o n m e n t , Jenni Chambers t h e h i s t o r i c e n v i r o n m e n t a n d w i l d l i f e c o n s e r v a t i o n The National Ice Age Network (NIAN) currently operates from the University of Birmingham and Elizabeth Pearson Royal Holloway (University of London), with further centres planned at Leicester and Southampton. These regional centres will act as It is not always obvious At Wellington Quarry, near Hereford, hubs for seminars, public lectures, artefact handling that wildlife conservation and protection of the understanding changing environments has been an sessions, and ‘Life in the Ice Age’ weekends. prehistoric heritage are co-dependent, but in important part of the archaeology, and through this lowlands areas, the most diverse information comes alluvial landscape a picture of late Palaeolithic One key objective is to assess the Pleistocene from peat bogs, relict waterchannels and alluvial environment to medieval agriculture is emerging. potential of quarries and ensure aggregate deposits, and river floodplains, features attractive to Here peat and alluvial deposits are consistently extraction sites with potential for Ice Age sediments environmental archaeologist, wildlife sampled, but in locations where human activity has National Ice Age Network logo. © NIAN 2005 and remains are actively monitored. This Herculean conservationists and local communities alike. not been demonstrated, this type of work does still task needs help from other field archaeologists, so Destruction of such sites, for example as part of a falls through the net at the planning stage. In here comes the sales pitch… many of you already flood alleviation scheme, may result from their Worcestershire alone there are miles of floodplain Sands and gravels that provide a wealth of invisibility on both the HER and databases held by containing a network of abandoned channels. It is information about Holocene archaeology are environmental agencies. Better collaboration clear that this should be reflected in the Historic remnants of Ice Age rivers and the meltwaters of therefore is essential. Environment Record in order to flag up the retreating glaciers, and contain many clues requirement for environmental work. about the lives and environments of the earliest The ‘environment’ within ‘historic environment’ has received much attention in areas like the Severn Even small peat bogs have their uses. Many are inhabitants of Britain. The National Ice Age Estuary, Somerset Levels, East Anglian Fens and the affected by flood alleviation or wetland restoration Network is an Aggregates Levy Sustainability Humber wetlands where a particular type of schemes which can have both good and damaging Fund (ALSF) funded initiative seeking to landscape is obvious. The West Midlands has so far effects. Recently, such schemes have affected peat strengthen contacts between archaeologists, benefited little from such research, but in deposits of Mesolithic date at Droitwich, and of geologists, Quaternary scientists and other Worcestershire there has been a concerted effort to Neolithic date in the Vale of Evesham. specialists, quarry companies and the public, to bring palaeoenvironmental work into the core of Archaeologists, wildlife conservationists, locals and archaeology, and look to the future for management planners alike may have an interest, but all may be create an inclusive and supportive network of of the resource and research. unaware of its existence. those interested in the Ice Age. James Greig sampling Worcestershire Historic Environment and While in situpreservation is sometimes found, eg at for pollen at Archaeology Service is therefore working on an Boxgrove, Sussex and Lynford, Norfolk, it is more spend much of your time in or around quarries and Ice Age woolly Wellington Quarry enhancement of the HER. The first phase is an index common to find secondary context evidence that is so are ideally placed to assess their Pleistocene rhino, found by (Worcestershire of all environmental remains already recorded, plus durable enough to have survived dynamic potential. The National Ice Age Network would like quarry worker Ray Historic Environment key assemblages. It is hoped that a GIS layer will be depositional regimes, such as stone tools to help. We offer specialist advice on Pleistocene Davies at and Archaeology added which predicts where deposits of potential (particularly Acheulean handaxes) and large fauna. deposits, Palaeolithic archaeology, and the like, Whitemoor Haye Service) exist. Such assemblages dominate the British Lower and providing an ‘Ice Age infrastructure’ of knowledge (Staffordshire). Middle Palaeolithic record and demonstrate the and assistance. © Birmingham Ideally the Historic Environment, Biological and importance of monitoring extraction sites. Archaeology Geological centres should co-ordinate their work Monitoring also allows us to identify fine-grained We’ll be contacting units directly in the coming and engage with academic institutions to develop deposits within gravel sequences, which can months, but in the meantime please check out the research. The first steps are underway, but much preserve environmental data such as molluscs, Network’s website at www.iceage.org.uk, email us work is still to be done. beetles, plant remains and microvertebrates. Finds with any questions or comments at such as the Whitemoor Haye rhino provide an easy [email protected] and if we can be of any Elizabeth Pearson means with which to grab the public’s imagination, assistance just let us know. Worcestershire Historic Environment and but without good relationships between quarry staff Archaeology Service and archaeologists such discoveries would not be Jenni Chambers Woodbury Hall,University College Worcester possible. Of equal value are the day-to-day tasks of National Ice Age Network Henwick Grove,Worcester WR2 6AJ recording sections, field walking in pits, checking University of Birmingham [email protected] reject heaps and environmental sampling. [email protected] 14 The Archaeologist Spring 2005 Number 56 15 Specific aims are to • define the scope of extant and desirable research The Heart of Neolithic Orkney: in and around the WHS • identify gaps in knowledge World Heritage Site research agenda • outline the potential of the area to answer research questions • encourage inter-disciplinary research into a Sally Foster broad spectrum of topics within the WHS and its wider context • encourage research which will contribute to preservation, conservation, management and interpretation issues • encourage research with wider methodological and/or theoretical applications. The Agenda falls into seven parts The archaeology of Part 1 Agenda settingBackground to the Site, context, purpose and methodology of research agenda. Orkney is a research field Part 2 Resource assessmentPeriod-based Skara Brae (House 7) assessment of the history of research in of quite exceptional provides a unique Orkney and summary of the current state of glimpse of domestic life knowledge, highlighting gaps. richness, by international 5000 years ago (Crown Part 3 Research themesAdopting an approach that copyright courtesy of as well as national cuts across period boundaries, ideas for future Historic Scotland). research are discussed under two strands: standards. It is well artefacts, monuments and cultural identity; formation and utilisation of the landscape. served by this refreshing Part 4 TechniquesSpecialists describe what will work best in Orkney and what merits more appraisal. attention. Part 5 Research strategyEach research theme is Colin Renfrew subdivided into more specific fields, and sample research topics are identified. Specific research projects, with an indication of how these might be prioritised, are incorporated. Recent geophysical Part 6 Appendices Supplementary information, survey and trial including a summary of investigations at the excavation have WHS monuments, and archaeological produced evidence The Heart of Neolithic Orkney was fieldwork undertaken in Orkney 1945-2003. for dense prehistoric Part 7 Extended bibliography. activity around the inscribed by UNESCO in 1999, its title ICOMOS guidelines for World Heritage Sites (WHS) individual recommend there should be mechanisms to devise, This project was grant-aided by Historic Scotland, applying to six discrete sites in West components of the promote and co-ordinate research programmes in Orkney Islands Council and Orkney Heritage WHS, including a the area, an important task that has been carried out Society, with support from Orkney College UHI. Mainland, Orkney, in the care of the Neolithic settlement in Orkney with the contribution of many people between the henges Scottish Ministers through Historic and organisations, steered by Jane Downes of While stocks last, a free copy of this report can at Ring of Brodgar Orkney College University of the Highlands and be requested from and Stones of Scotland. Islands. [email protected] Stenness (Crown Tel 0131 668 8638 Visitors at Maeshowe: This is cutting edge research. I copyright courtesy These include the This is the first research agenda for a WHS in TCRE, Historic Scotland, Longmore House, research will help us to of Historic • chambered tomb of Maeshowe Scotland and the most up-to-date overview of Salisbury Place, Edinburgh, EH9 1SH, predict that it will be used quite better interpret and Scotland). • stone circle and henge at Stones of Stenness and Orcadian archaeology. The aim is to improve or can be downloaded from present the monuments nearby stone settings known as the Watch Stone understanding of Neolithic Orkney whilst www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/orkneyresearch. widely, far beyond Orkney, as a and their surrounding and the Barnhouse Stone attempting to cross period boundaries. The landscape, informing the • stone circle, henge, adjacent standing stone and approach is to consider how people have engaged Sally M Foster model of how such issues should work of the newly burial mounds at the Ring of Brodgar with the world about them through time, Senior Inspector of Ancient Monuments established WHS Ranger • settlement of Skara Brae identifying gaps in present knowledge. Historic Scotland be tackled. Colin Renfrew Service (© Sally Foster). 16 The Archaeologist Spring 2005 Number 56 17 Excavation plan of the early Neolithic Hall at Claish, Stirling (published in Barclay, GJ, Brophy, K & Macgregor, G 2002 Claish, Stirling: an early Neolithic Going grey: structure in its context, Proc Soc Antiq Scot 132) prehistory and the can now see that Neolithic cursuses developed in between some of the developments along the east Scotland before many were built in England. On coast of England and that of Ireland. In both potential of grey the other hand, some of the traditions that began countries there has been an increase in discoveries during the Neolithic continued much longer in the of Late Bronze Age settlements, and in lowland north, and also in Ireland where stone circles were England it seems as if coaxial field systems were literature still being built during the Late Bronze Age. a feature of the Middle and Late Bronze Age landscapes and then went out of use during the Early Iron Age. Few examples were then created More settlements, different burials Richard Bradley until the late pre-Roman period, and in between Early Neolithic settlements are now being found these phases other kinds of land boundaries, such quite plentifully overall, with many examples in as pit alignments, were apparently more important. Ireland and some in Scotland, though in England their remains are more ephemeral. In Northern The Iron Age and regionality Britain, a number of timber halls are recognised as During a recent project to look at new dating to this period. Fieldwork in most regions is In fact less is known about the Iron Age than is evidence for prehistoric archaeology also identifying Neolithic burials which are not generally believed for, like Ireland, large parts of deriving from developer-funded associated with the usual forms of monument. Britain were aceramic. The use of storage pits for Burial in single graves, however, may have been a human burials has been discussed in recent years, archaeology, Richard Bradley and Tim short lived phenomenon, and this particular way of but it is actually a regional phenomenon which Phillips visited all the English SMRs, the treating the dead seems to have been reintroduced occurs on both sides of the English Channel. Hill during the Beaker period. Again the evidence of forts, too, may be an impressive but peripheral Welsh Archaeological Trusts, National monuments alone is quite deceptive, and modern phenomenon compared with the rich open Monuments Record of Scotland and many excavation of large stripped areas is providing more settlements of eastern England. Recent work is of the commercial archaeology firms in evidence of Beaker flat graves. The distribution of showing that some of the largest forts in Ireland Early Bronze Age burials shows fewer biases were actually built during the Bronze Age and the Ireland. Richard talked to unit directors outside Wessex than before, with rich examples same may be true in Scotland. The geography of and field officers and Tim made copies of occurring now in areas such as Kent, the English prehistoric settlement is changing radically. Midlands, north-east Scotland and the east coast of selected extracts from all relevant reports – Ireland. Some were associated with mounds, but Data from a decade of developer-funded the so-called ‘grey’ literature. Richard is others were in flat cemeteries. work is set to revolutionise the study of preparing an account of British and Irish prehistory, and there is no doubt that the prehistory which makes use of this wealth Unexpected patterns, changing field systems same will apply to later periods, too. We of crucial but barely digested data. After a During the Middle and Late Bronze Age, the can now prove that good and useful work is pilot study funded by English Heritage, their increasing scale of fieldwork means that features that were often studied in isolation, such as burnt being done: the challenge now is to make it work has been supported by a grant from mounds, hoards and urnfields, are now being found more readily accessible to ensure that it is the Arts and Humanities Research Board. together and associated with settlement sites. Unexpected patterns can be recognised when we put to good use. It is obvious that accounts of prehistoric look at the data as a whole. For example, there are archaeology are severely biased by the distribution links between the areas known for Late Bronze Age Richard Bradley of published fieldwork. That is being redressed by ringworks, field systems and finds of metalwork University of Reading the results of contract archaeology. For example, we from rivers, and there may be close parallels [email protected] 18 The Archaeologist Spring 2005 Number 56 19