Latest News

news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/uk/england/newsid_1670000/1670707.stm

An amateur historian has found a lost standing stone in his own “back garden” – 18 months after beginning a search for it.

Stephen Davis and historian friend Clare Forbes used ancient documents to help track down The Horestone near Stroud, Gloucestershire, some
350 years after it was lost.

Mr Davis learned of the stone when he began researching the history of his own house in 1987.

He then started to swap notes with local historian Ms Forbes and this led to the pair agreeing to look for the stone together.

The first known reference to the stone was in legal documents dated 1170.

But it is believed to mark a Bronze Age burial site dating back to around 2,500 BC.

The area was declared common land after a law suit was fought over it in the 14th Century.

Its last official recording was in 1636 in a tax record.

The land on which it stands, which is behind Mr Davis’ house, was sold off 300 years ago and is now part of a housing estate.

‘Astonishing moment‘

The two stone-hunters feared the ancient rock on Rodborough Common might have been smashed up or buried to destroy its magical powers.

Mr Davis said: “We had no reason to believe that we’d actually find it. These things are buried, ploughed over or they just fall over.”

They almost missed finding it because it was so overgrown with ivy it looked like a tree stump.

But both said they were glad to find it and “unpick the lock of ancient history around Rodborough”.

On uncovering the stone, Mr Davis said: “It’s curious to excavate a piece of history. It wasn’t just stumbling across it, but just stumbling across
it while we were looking for it.

“It was the most astonishing of moments. It spoke immediately of lost time and still had all the atmosphere of a pagan shrine.

“I was certainly not expecting to have such a stunning moment in my own back garden.”

English Heritage is now expected to declare the six-feet-high stone a scheduled ancient monument.

Due to the increased number of visitors, the Chestnuts are now only available to visit by appointment.

Price £1 (under 16’s free)

Contact: Joan Bygrave, Rose Alba, Park Road, Addington, West Malling, Kent, ME19 5BQ

Phone: 01732 840220

Please don’t think you can sneak in, they’re in her back garden.

Thanks to Jane for the update on the Phone No.

This is the reply I received from the NTS re the poor state of this grand monolith;

Thank you for your recent e-mail regarding the Caiy Stane. I have been asked to reply because, as the Conservator for the South region of the National Trust for Scotland, the Caiy Stane falls within my remit. The regional archaeologist, Robin Turner, and one of the regional surveyors, Bryan Dickson, also have an input into discussions regarding the Caiy Stane.

We are aware of the condition of the Caiy Stane and recently commissioned a stone conservator from Historic Scotland to undertake tests and produce a proposal for the removal of the graffiti and general cleaning. I am awaiting his proposal and once I have this we will press ahead with the work.

I agree with you that the Caiy Stane is of great importance and it is clearly lamentable that it has got into this condition. Following the conservation work we will be monitoring the Caiy stane regularly for signs of further damage, but, as you will appreciate, it is very difficult to stop this kind of thing from happening altogether.

Thank you again for your interest in this matter, and please do not hesitate to contact me again if you have any further comments.

Yours sincerely

Isobel Griffin
Regional Conservator
National Trust for Scotland

buckscc.gov.uk/news/200105/Whiteleaf_Hill.pdf

HERITAGE LOTTERY BID FOR WHITELEAF HILL NATURE RESERVE
RESTORATION PROJECT

Buckinghamshire County Council has recently submitted a Heritage Lottery Bid application to support its restoration project of the Whiteleaf Hill Nature Reserve, a site of unique national importance.

The total of the cost of the three year project is estimated to run into six figures. Onyx Environmental Trust have already pledged £75,000 for the restoration of the Whiteleaf Cross with major financial support coming from Buckinghamshire County Council and the Landfill Tax. However, the Heritage Lottery Bid is crucial to the success of the project in providing funding for a number of important historical projects on the site. The outcome of the Lottery bid is expected in the autumn.

The Project is based on a strong local partnership between the owners and managers of the site, Buckinghamshire County Council, and the Risborough Countryside Group, Princes Risborough Town Council, and other interested parties and statutory agencies. The Project also has the support of English Nature, The Countryside Agency and the Chilterns AONB as well as Lord Carrington, Sir William McAlpine, Sir Nigel Mobbs and Sir Timothy Raison.

HERITAGE LOTTERY BID FOR WHITELEAF HILL NATURE RESERVE
RESTORATION PROJECT: 2

The main objects of the project are to conserve Whiteleaf Cross as a stable and prominent hill figure, improve public access and recreational facilities, including the Ridgeway National Trail and site carpark/picnic area and to foster a sense of local identity at Whiteleaf and its association with local settlements and the market town Princes Risborough. The project also aims to develop educational opportunities and a greater awareness of the site among younger people.

On a historical basis, the project plans to survey, map and interpret archaeological/ historical features above or below ground, carry out limited research excavations of the Neolithic Barrow and WW1 trenches and interpret the site and its key features through leaflets, panels and a locally produced book. Improving the chalk grassland habitats and carrying out species conservation works will also plan an important part of the project. Mike Woods, Countryside Manager, said: “This Local Nature Reserve is an important site which offers a unique natural environment and historic past. It is essential that we preserve this important site for future generations to enjoy. Our Heritage Lottery bid is a key element in securing its future.”

HERITAGE LOTTERY BID FOR WHITELEAF HILL NATURE RESERVE
RESTORATION PROJECT: 3

Community interest and support for the project is reflected by the Risborough Countryside Group who enjoy a membership of over 200 local people and provide the link with other local organisations, groups, clubs and schools.

Design and technical advice for the project has kindly been donated by Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd.

cruithni.org/issues/silbury/savesilbury.html

September 8th, 2001:

Venue Avebury main car-park with walk to Silbury Hill.

A mass walk to bring attention to the sorry state of the hill and to demand that govt money is provided to repair the damage. By this date the current surveys should be completed and an idea of just how much work and money is needed should be ready.

Help to keep the pressure up and to get media attention by joining the walk, meet up in the main car- park around 1-1.30pm ready to set off to Silbury Hill car park at 2pm.

Bring a picnic, bring children, bring your friends, bring banners. This is to be a peaceful demonstration so the more peaceful types the better!

The last march went off very well with a friendly police presence and some of the kids getting lifts in the back of the lead police car. If by any chance an announcement is made that the funds will be made available then the day will transform into a celebration instead.

If any of you who live in cities and don’t have cars would like to offer to arrange coaches get in touch. Likewise anyone with car space.

Birmingham/Midlands pagans are already trying to arrange coach hire and places. Make a day out of it, book a coach for your moot, enjoy a day out in Ancient Avebury and do something to show support for Silbury Hill.

Anyone wanting to offer to be a steward for the day please get in touch by mailing [email protected], stewards are needed to try to talk people out of climbing the hill and to ensure safety on the walk (fluorescent jackets provided).

news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/uk/newsid_1493000/1493535.stm

Scanners probe Stone Age mystery

Archaeologists are using computer imaging to try to solve one of the biggest mysteries of Stone Age Britain.

Silbury Hill in Wiltshire is the biggest man-made neolithic mound in Europe – but nobody knows why it was built.

The 130ft foot grassy mound, which was built more than 4,000 years ago, has been seriously threatened by a hole which appeared in its summit in May last year.

As repairs get under way English Heritage wants to carry out a seismic study of the hill to create 3D computer images of what lies inside.

A hole appeared in the hill’s summit last year

First they have to shore up an 18th century shaft from a previous excavation that collapsed several months ago.

It has already been reinforced with polystyrene, and on Thursday helicopters will transport 36 tonnes of chalk to cap the opening.

Once the hill has been made safe, four small vertical holes will be bored into its side so that scientists can increase the detail of the interior scan.

The results should be known in October. Archaeologists have tried to uncover the secret of Silbury Hill for more than 200 years.

Archaeologists will use an 18th Century shaft

The giant mound would have taken 700 men 10 years to complete, using antler picks and shovels made from the shoulder bones of animals.

There have been several theories about the site, which forms part of the ancient landscape surrounding Avebury stone circle and nearby Stonehenge.

No evidence has been found of any human burials but many believe it was a sacred monument.

Others think it was nothing more than a Stone Age waste tip.

English Heritage News Release
6/8/2001

WORLD CLASS TEAM TO SUPPORT DESIGN OF NEW STONEHENGE CENTRE

The next exciting phase in the creation of the new Visitor Facilities at
Stonehenge, located outside the World Heritage Site at
Countess East, Amesbury, was announced by English Heritage on Friday 3
August. The appointment of a world-class team who will support the project
architects Denton Corker Marshall comprises a Project Manager, Structural
and Civil Engineer, Landscape Architect, Mechanical and Electrical
Engineers, Transport Engineer and Quantity Surveyor.
In April 2001 English Heritage announced the appointment of Denton Corker
Marshall as architects and design team leaders. Now, with today’s
appointments, design will rapidly advance.

Announcing the selection, John Vimpany, Project Director for Stonehenge,
said: “I am delighted to welcome to the Project a design team whose dynamic
mix of skills and expertise will combine to produce one of the best visitor
centres in the world.

“Each firm has been carefully selected against stiff competition from an
international field to bring creativity and expertise to the project. They
have a real understanding of Stonehenge as a World Heritage Site and the
importance of restoring an open landscape around it.”

The appointments announced today are:

Structural and Civil Engineers – Anthony Hunt Associates Ltd
This highly respected firm of structural and civil engineers has worked with
many of the country’s most respected architects such as Richard Rogers
Partnership, Foster & Partners and John McAslan Architects. They also share
many similar design principals with Denton Corker Marshall, the project’s
architects. Previous high profile projects include the Eden Project in
Cornwall, the National Botanic Gardens in Wales and the North Greenwich
Transport Interchange.

Landscape Architect – Chris Blandford Associates
Well known for their sensitive approach to landscape design, CBA bring to
the project a deep understanding of the cultural, planning and environmental
issues that affect the landscape surrounding Stonehenge. This appointment
follows their earlier work on the Stonehenge World Heritage Site Management
Plan, the Tower of London World Heritage Site and extensive work for the
Department of Transport.

Project Manager – Gardiner & Theobald Management Services
GTMS will provide the vital link between English Heritage and the design
team headed by architects Denton Corker Marshall. They have a proven
track-record in managing high profile heritage projects including the
Imperial War Museum North, the Salisbury Cathedral Magna Carta Project, the
Windsor Castle Fire Restoration and the National Gallery Sainsbury Wing.

Quantity Surveyor – Davis Langdon & Everest
Davis Langdon & Everest’s international reputation is based on a wide range
of prestigious projects, especially in the cultural and museums sector
including the Eden Project, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Tate Gallery
and British Museum.

Mechanical & Electrical Engineer – Norman Disney and Young
This fast growing international firm of engineering consultants are known
for their work on the Shell Mex House in London, the Museum of New Zealand
and the visitor centre at the Australia War Museum.

Transport Engineer – Colin Buchanan and Partners
Colin Buchanan and Partners is one of the UK’s leading transport
consultants, with experience in providing transport solutions for a variety
of projects both in the UK and overseas. Previous projects include the
creation of regeneration strategies for London and Middlesborough and a
Transport Feasibility Study for Oxford.

A draft scheme for the visitor centre and transport link will be produced
later this year, on which English Heritage will consult the National Trust
and the other Stonehenge Master Plan partners, prior to detailed designs
being drawn up to form the basis of a planning application in 2002/3.

Some of you might have read in the Guardian last week that this issue was resolved. It was reported that a compromise had been agreed and that the Nine Ladies were safe from quarrying. Unfortunately, this is not true and looks like it will not be resolved until May of this year. So the good people up in Derbyshire that are fighting to ensure the future of this most beautiful site are still in need of your support. Don’t forget them!
I am very sad to say that a good Derbyshire woman named Dian Case has passed away. She was passionate about saving the Nine Ladies (and was a long-time campaigner for any endangered Derbyshire countryside). R.I.P.

Thanks again to Kevin for providing us with this update on Sea Henge...

It’s official. Norfolk’s Sea Henge is to be returned to the waves.
Here is a couple of paragraphs from a recent addition of the local rag “The Lynn News and Advertiser”.

Chairman of Lynn and West Norfolk Museums Committee Ted Benefer said: “The mystical quality the timbers had in their beach setting in Holme would just be too difficult to recreate in a museum. The preservation and upkeep of the circle, if displayed off-site, would also be a drain on resources, because it is unlikely the timbers themselves would be a big draw for visitors”

BBC Local radio and regional Television have subsequently been running with the line that early next year the timbers would be buried “as close to their original setting as possible”.

The story doesn’t seem to have made the national press. I am assuming Time Team wont be
doing a “special” about the sites re burial ( despite the fact that their TV companion book features a picture of Sea Henge, pre desecration, on its cover).

So the timber will be re buried, in the wrong place.

A case of Flawed Genius Loci.

Thanks to Kevin for supplying the following update and thoughts on Sea Henge...

Oh dear.. looks like a black day for the desecration brigade.

It appears that no one wants to give a home to the displaced timbers of Sea Henge.
Strangely such an interesting story has made little impact in the national press but here is a transcript of a recently broadcast BBC Regional TV item.

“Seahenge timber circle may end up back on the beach where it was originally found. Talks are continuing over its future... and siting it on Holme beach is one of the options being considered.
West Norfolk Borough Council has turned down the chance to have it.”

It seems some people have noticed that the rotten timbers slumped in a visitor centre somehow lack the enchantment they had when glimpsed rising from the waters once every thirty or so years on a windswept Norfolk beach. What a surprise. I would hazard a guess that if you pulled Stone Henge down and re assembled it in the car park at Heathrow airport it would also lose some of its dignity.

Pulling a sacred site apart may help archaeologists find out HOW it got there but will never reveal WHY it got there. The answer to that is in the question; it is the THERE which is important.

If a hard pressed subsistence culture busted its ass to put stones/timbers/burials in a specific place then they did it for a reason. I think you can only begin to glimpse those reasons if you keep artifacts and site together.

Sea Henge was a local secret. Some of the people of Holme new it appeared every few decades. Grandfathers took their grandchildren to see it when certain rhythms of time and tide permitted it to be seen.

I’m not saying that was the original intention of the builders, but I would argue that it has a certain poetry about it. No one wants to gawp at some dislocated rotten stumps in a museum. No one wants to stand on a beach and say “there USED to be a sacred site out there, somewhere”.

Even the most pragmatic amongst us must have that sneaky feeling that a spell has been broken.

Meanwhile 4000 year old bits of wood free to a good home.

Thanks to Fiona Young who sent in this article from her local Aberdeenshire newspaper:

“Stone Circle Named As Ancient Monument”
by Audrey Innes

The remains of a group of North-east standing stones, which date back more than 5,000 years, look set to be named as an official ancient monument later this year.

The Neolithic stone circle, which can be found to the west of North Mains of Auchmaliddie, near Longside, is to be scheduled by Historic Scotland.

This will result in the recumbent circle receiving statutory protection and will be monitored by inspectors on a cyclical basis.

The majority of the stones have been stolen and only the recumbent stone and west flanker, which has now fallen, have survived.

The white quartz stones are understood to have been quarried within the area.

A spokesman for Historic Scotland said this type of stone circle was distinctive to the North-east and dates from the later Neolithic period, around 3,000BC.

He said: “The monument is in the process of being scheduled as an ancient monument and the work will be completed within the next three months.”

He added that they had still to speak with the monument’s owners.

Yesterday, South Buchan councillor Norma Thomson, who represents Auchmaliddie, said: “Buchan is rich in historic sites and monuments such as these, so any moves to protect our heritage in this way are to be welcomed.”

Banff and Buchan MSP Alex Salmond said: “The site has not been inspected by the authorities for the last 10 years or so and concerns were expressed to me about the potential implications of this.”

He added: “I contacted Historic Scotland and I am pleased that they arranged for an inspection to be carried out and consider the site worthy of inclusion as a scheduled monument.”

There are about 100 of these recumbent stone circles within the North-east. They usually comprise of a ring of stones, around 65ft in diameter with the largest stone, the recumbent, lying on its side.

Yes, it’s true that a huge hole has appeared at the top of Silbury. I’ve just come back from checking it out, and the entire area is roped off and the NT is not letting anyone near. The hole has appeared precisely where it was excavated in the late 1700s, and an NT spokesperson believes that it was re-opened as a result of all the recent rain. The NT is treating this as a very serious matter, as they no doubt realise that they cannot patrol the Hill 24 hours a day and that folks will continue to ascend.
Very worrying indeed.