EDO5545 - Sherborne Abbey Close (Pathway), Sherborne; evaluation

Context One Archaeological Solutions carried out an archaeological evaluation at Sherborne Abbey to determine the impact on any archaeological remains during the construction of a new pathway. Three test pits were excavated adjacent to the kerb of the current footpath, measuring 1m x 1m and 0.5m. Turf was removed manually and all were excavated by a qualified archaeologist. A total of 30 sherds of pottery were recovered during the evaluation, the majority of which is post-medieval or modern in date. Five sherds of medieval pottery were recovered. The other finds on site consisted of eight clay pipe stem fragments, seven glass sherds and five metal objects, all of post-medieval or more modern date. A flat stone with an iron rod imbedded in it was uncovered in test pit 1, which the report suggests represents the base of a post-medieval or modern railing or grave marker. Despite the absence of in-situ graves or structures at any of the test pit locations, the possibility of shallow grave or tombs being uncovered by the development at any location within the site cannot be ruled out and any construction work is at least likely to uncover significant quantities of disarticulated human bone.