Experts unearth Roman treasures on school site
AN archaeological dig has proved to be a very moo-ving experience for pupils and staff at the Willoughby School in Bourne.
A host of Roman discoveries has been made at the school since experts started digging about three weeks ago.
And the school was udderly shocked when remains of a Roman cow – which they've dubbed 'Daisy' – were found.
Site supervisor Mark Dymonds said: "The site has produced a lot of finds and most are of high quality.
"We've found parts of the Roman road to King Street and we've had some nice Roman finewares which indicate a high status settlement.
"We've also discovered some Samian pottery brought over from France and some very nice Nene Valley folded beakers."
A large quantity of animal bone has also been found at the site including bones believed to be from a cow.
Mr Dymonds said most of the finds would be dated to the 2nd or 3rd centuries, about the same period as a pottery kiln previously found under Bourne Grammar School.
He added: "People believe Bourne was actually a small Roman town. As well as the Roman road to King Street you've got the Car Dyke canal which runs through Bourne and the Bourne/Morton canal.
"We are recording everything as we go along. Our next job will be to produce a record of all the finds."
This record is expected to become part of the city and county museum.
Head teacher Adam Booker said the school was really milking its Roman experience.
Other local schools have been invited to have a look around the site.
And in light of the finds, parts of the school's history curriculum have been changed to look at the Romans.
Mr Booker said: "It's absolutely fascinating to know there have been 2,000 years of life on this site. For many of the pupils it has spurred on their interest.
"The heat, dust and noise have made things difficult at times but the staff and pupils have coped really well."
The dig has meant work on the school's new building project has had to be put back.
"We know we're three or four weeks behind but these things happen," said Mr Booker.
"We know as soon as work starts we will have a new wing to the school within a year. We're hoping everything will be finished by next June or July."
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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