Ep 10. Sutton, Hereford

In Time Team season 7 episode 10, the team travels to Sutton, Hereford to investigate the site of a lost Anglo-Saxon settlement. The village was believed to have been abandoned in the 7th century, but recent evidence suggests that it may have been occupied for much longer than originally thought.

The team begins their investigation by conducting a geophysical survey of the area, which reveals a series of anomalies that could indicate the presence of buildings and other structures. Excavations are then carried out at several locations around the site, with each trench yielding a variety of interesting finds.

In one trench, archaeologists uncover a large ditch that appears to have once surrounded the settlement. This feature is particularly significant because it suggests that the villagers were concerned about defense and may have been at risk of attack from rival communities.

Another trench reveals a series of postholes, which could have supported a timber building. This is a particularly exciting discovery because it provides evidence of the type of dwellings that would have been present in an Anglo-Saxon settlement.

In addition to these features, the team also discovers a number of artifacts that provide insights into the lives of the settlement's inhabitants. These include fragments of pottery, bone tools, and even a piece of ironwork that may have been part of a sword.

Throughout the episode, the team works with a group of local volunteers and historians to piece together the story of Sutton and its people. They explore the period of Anglo-Saxon history when the village was occupied, discussing topics such as trade, warfare, and religion.

As the episode draws to a close, the team reflects on their findings, which have helped to shed light on a previously unknown chapter of British history. They express their gratitude to the local community for their support and enthusiasm, and marvel at the way in which archaeology can help us to understand the past in ever-greater detail.