Antiquity 83 (319)

Using a study of the twentieth-century excavations combined with precise radiocarbon dating, proposes that the site started life in the early third millennium cal BC as a cremation cemetery within a circle of upright bluestones. Suggests that it may have been founded as the burial place of a leading family, possibly from Wales.

Discusses the 2008 excavations at the site, considering the impact of media involvement. Criticises the move towards prioritising preservation in situ over excavation as part of a well-designed research strategy.

Examines issues surrounding the treatment of non-Christian skeletal material, challenging the assumption that guidelines drawn up in post-colonial situations can be applied to British material. Also argues that neo-pagan groups cannot be said to constitute an independent indigenous people.

Reports experimental results from a 2008 pilot study designed to investigate marine inundation of archaeological sites, employing Wallasea Island which underwent a trial inundation in 2006 ahead of total flooding in 2010.\r\nThis article is only available online.\r\n