Land at Twyford, Melton, Leicestershire - Detailed Gradiometer Survey Report

Wessex Archaeology

A detailed gradiometer survey was conducted over a 14.1 ha parcel of land and was successful in detecting anomalies of possible archaeological origin: a possible ring-ditch, extraction pits and ridge and furrow cultivation were identified.

The possible ditched enclosure was identified by a small cluster of curvilinear and globular anomalies which could also, however, represent geological variations or be related to the laying of the modern service immediately west.

The extraction pits are thought to be of 18th-century origin, an interpretation strengthened by the similar, modern, gravel pits identified to the north of the site, recorded on 18th-century OS mapping. These anomalies could also be geological in origin or related to a build-up of magnetic material as a result of modern agricultural practices.

The curving form and broad spacing of the ridge and furrow may indicate a medieval date although further investigation would be required to establish this.

The only other features identified on site relate to more recent activity and include two modern services, land drains and disturbance generated by animal feeding troughs.