Silbury Hill 180
Image by Holy McGrail

Perhaps the new year could herald some kind of new start, water under the bridge and all that , and a more of a responsible approach to posting from all concerned on TMA.
Well said that man. Less of the concentration on who is posting and more actual concentration on what people are saying, in my opinion. From both sides of this increasingly acrimonious 'debate' please.

We may disagree on the fundamentals of how and what and why is being done, but civility really does cost nothing.

I, like Fitz, spend less and less time at this forum, mainly because I don't come here to read people scoring points off each other, I come here for the prehistory.

As a by the by, I spent 4 very enjoyable hours on eyam moor in the driving rain over the festive period using the gps to awesome effect seeing all 3 'circles' and the cupmarked stones. Now thats the point.

Could I please add my small voice to that - I say small as I am largely unable to contribute anything in the way of photos or new material (not owning a vehicle) but do like to read TMA for 1) enjoyment (wonderful pics, folk-lore posts and archaeological information and 2) to increase my own knowledge in a subject I am very interested in.

A few months ago I did dip into the Silbury debate but quickly withdrew.
Fitz is the clear voice of reason but I also take on board Littlestone's reiteration on the principles of conservation - what is required is an explanation from EH as to why the bags are being used. I personally will take the initiative to give EH a call tomorrow (as their office is located in my town). If there is no-one there to answer (given it is New Year's Eve) than I'll write a letter or phone again later in the week. I think what Fitz (yes, I know small f) has written will almost certainly be correct.

May I also just add that is very unlikely that anyone would speak to each other face to face the way they sometimes do on this forum - someone would end up on the floor if they did.

Wishing everyone a Very Happy New Year!