THE discovery of a possible Iron Age enclosure in Weobley has set archaeological pulses racing.

A small hillock in a meadow next to the Medieval castle mound could hold evidence of prehistoric settlement dating back to around 500 BC, or even earlier.

Using surveying techniques and sophisticated ground penetrating radar, a team of archaeologists led by Weobley resident Dr George Nash, of Bristol University, has built up a detailed picture of the surviving earthworks, with any sub-surface remains showing up as 'anomalies' on the radar printout.

"The enclosure appears to be bounded by at least two sets of banks and ditches, which are rectangular in form," said Dr Nash, who heads the Weobley Castle Survey Project.

"On top of the small hillock is a rectangular building with several buildings running to the north towards the village. This is by far the most important area of the project."

He stresses that interpretation is a matter of hot debate. Survey results are still being processed and no conclusive evidence has yet been found.

"There are a number of ideas concerning these features and what they may represent, ranging from an Iron Age enclosure to an early Medieval castle.''

Roman coins

Dr Nash added: "The presence of Roman coins in the neighbouring fields means that a feature of Roman date can not be entirely ruled out."

The castle project was launched in September and has been supported by funding from the Countryside Agency - Local Heritage Initiative. Among those contributing skills and expertise have been Time Team regulars Dr Mark Corney and Dr Richard Tabor, both of Bristol University, and Gill Swanton, also of Bristol University.

The completion of the ground survey marks the end of the first phase of the project. In addition to the enclosure, the team has made some significant discoveries within the vicinity of the castle, all of which shed light on the development of the area over many centuries.

Findings to date will be presented this evening (Thursday November 21) at a public meeting held in the Willow Gallery, Weobley, at 7.30pm.

The findings include the remains of Medieval fishponds, with associated sluices and dams, that have shown up as linear banks to the south and west of the castle remains.

A shallow depression running south/north suggests a system of artificial water channels, known as leats; while a rectangular earthwork nearby may represent the remains of a mill or fish-drying house.