Ancient treasures reveal
Roman settlement

ARCHAEOLOGIST James Balme has discovered more ancient treasures indicating that a local village was once a Roman settlement.
Having already uncovered a Roman fortlet at Warburton near Lymm, James has extended his search of farmer's fields in the area and discovered further important artefacts.
He believes his latest finds prove beyond all doubt that a separate settlement did indeed develop and grow in the Warburton area during the 2nd and 3rd centuries, in contrast to the fortlet which was constructed during the mid 1st century.
James said: "My initial work on the new areas has already started to produce major new finds and confirms my suspicions that a Roman settlement did develop in the Warburton area itself.
" I have recovered various Roman artefacts which include a rare pewter bust of a Roman citizen. This could be the face of one of the Roman people who once lived at the Roman settlement at Warburton.
He has also recovered a pewter spout from a vessel, possibly used for wine or oil which is cast in the form of a classic Roman fish or Dolphin. Another important find includes a bronze belt plate originally attached to a leather belt by copper rivets of the classic Greek key design.
Meanwhile James, in association with Paul Walker Productions, has released a video detailing the story of his finds, entitled "The King's Grave."
It follows the story of how James first discovered a settlement dating back to the early bronze age circa 2000BC in Warburton and then subsequent discovered a previously unknown Roman fortlet at the site, which has been captured on film for posterity.
The documentary is presented by Fred Talbot, who is well known for his work on Granada Tonight and it is co - presented by James. It follows an in-depth journey of discovery at the ancient settlement from the first days at the site through to the eventual exposure of the Roman fortlet, including the archaeological excavations at the site carried out jointly with South Trafford Archaeological Group and Manchester University Archaeological Unit.
The video is available at a cost of £14.99 and can be ordered online at the website www.warburtonvillage.co.uk
A second video is already in production for release in 2003.