20 graves discovered during Salisbury Plain archaeological dig
A number of different items were found too
Archaeologists have been finding out what lays beneath the feet of the military during a dig on Salisbury Plain.
The training area covers 25 miles x 10 miles, and was first purchased in 1897 by the War Office and has mostly remained in its original state ever since.
This means that much of the history underneath the ground is still there.
Over recent weeks they have been archaeologists have been uncovering an Anglo-Saxon burial ground dating back to the seventh and eighth century.
Since starting the dig they have discovered 21 burials in 20 graves.
Finds that have been excavated from the chalk and soil include knives, coins, glass beads, pottery, and jewellery, dating from the seventh century or 1400 years ago.
It's part of Operation Nightingale, which has been running for 12 years, and helps the recovery of wounded, injured and sick military personnel and veterans by getting them involved in archaeological investigations.
Richard Osgood MBE, Senior Archaeologist with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, says:
“Because the Army has been here since the nineteenth century it means it has preserved the land as an archaeological landscape. It has prevented housing developments, road schemes and other infrastructure and as a result has made this an archaeological paradise and the best there is in western Europe. Everything you want to know about the history of the UK you can see in these fields and it’s the Army’s presence that’s made it possible, so long may it continue.”
One of those taking part in the dig is Veteran Christopher Burdon.
He served with 1st Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers and has always been interested in archaeology:
“I struggled a bit with life after the military to be honest. A friend told me about Op Nightingale and how archaeology could help so I got involved and haven’t looked back.
"For me it’s about the fresh air, it’s about being outside. There’s also a great camaraderie being around serving and ex-service personnel. It’s a safe space for us all and really helps with my mental wellbeing."
Once the excavation is completed the graves will be filled in and the soil is returned.
This mean farmers can have a hay crop there next year and the military can return to using it.