Article from WARRINGTON WORLDWIDE ....
Field reveals more
ancient secrets
report and pictures by Gary Skentelbery
A FARMER'S field is continuing to unearth rare treasures from bygone ages.
Already the site of Bronze Age and Roman settlements dating back thousands of years, signs of a Viking presence have now also been uncovered by archaeologist James Balme, who's metal detecting led to the uncovering of a previously unknown Roman fortlet in Warburton, near Lymm.
During a new dig on the site he has made yet more exciting discoveries, including a rare Viking buckle with a "wonderful Runic design" dating back to the 10th century.As an added bonus James has also uncovered a 1st century bronze Roman military pendant from the uniform of one of the Roman soldiers who once patrolled the fortlet at Warburton.
Assisted by Brian Lomas and Paul Watson, who are both members of the Warburton Heritage Fund, set up to promote research into the ancient history of the village, work on the site will continue until December, when it will be closed until next Spring.
Believed to be one of the most important Roman discoveries in recent times James, from Rixton, Warrington and his team are currently involved with excavations with South Trafford Archaeological Group and the University of Manchester Archaeological Unit.
The most recent finds indicate the Vikings navigated the River Mersey, landing at Warburton and possibly settling at the site of the former Bronze Age and Roman settlements.
"Strategically this was clearly an important location," said James, who made his first discoveries on the farmer's field more than three years ago.
He added: "Ploughing often tends to disturb the soil and with the importance of the Warburton site in particular it is imperative that any artefacts which may be dragged towards the surface are recovered before any further damage can occur to them".
"The latest finds are another example of the ancient history of the area coming to life and gives us an even clearer picture of activity that took place in the village."It has always been accepted that Vikings may well have occupied Warburton village during the 10th century but this is the first solid piece of evidence ever to be recovered.
"The Roman military pendant is extremely important as it has come from a Roman legionary soldier based at the Roman fortlet and is identicle to ones found at North Shields Roman fort.
"This proves beyond all doubt that the Roman army did indeed control the Warburton area back in the 1st century."
The work on the site has been filmed and will soon be released on video. The ultimate aim is to create a heritage centre in the area.
For regular updates on the work visit www.warburtonvillage.co.uk
- Pictures show James with his assistants from the Heritage Trust and the Viking buckle (top) and Roman pendant.
<<< back