Beginning in July 2010 BCAP members have been participating in an excavation of Roman material at Avonfields, Keynsham.
The dig is organised by Bristol History & Archaeology Society, and is uncovering evidence of a settlement occupied throughout the Roman period, and situated not far from the palatial villa at Durley Hill, and the more modest villa at Somerdale. The dig site has been disturbed by modern development, so the finds are not in context, but the work is significant and will establish the scale and duration of occupation during the Roman period.
Our main interest in this site stems from the fact that Brislington Villa was not only contemporaneous with at least the later phases of the settlement, but was also close enough for the sites effectively to be neighbours. Of course, it also offers a great opportunity for our diggers to become more familiar with a wide range of finds (principally pottery) from this significant period in local history.
We also welcome the opportunity to meet and assist colleagues in the field in what is essentially a rescue dig, and something of a race against time. Anyone interested in assisting in this venture can do so through BCAP. More information about Keynsham's archaeology can be found through the website of Keynsham Heritage Trust.
