Trans Bristol Gloucestershire Archaeol Soc 112

Excavations in advance of gravel quarrying have revealed a LBA settlement dated to the ninth-tenth century BC. The preservation of the site had been adversely affected by prolonged agricultural exploitation and modern sewerage works, but overall the evidence points to the existence of an open settlement. Several post-built roundhouses were represented together with a circular gully structure and several other circular and rectilinear structures. A group of very large pits was also closely associated with the occupation areas. They may have functioned as temporary wells or sumps, or possibly served as retting pits. Along with an important ceramic assemblage, the finds from the site provided evidence for metalworking (Ewart Park socketed axes), textile production (loomweights), and crop-processing. Despite an 8ha area, the overall level of finds was low and there is a lack of intercutting features, which may suggest shifting occupation across the area by a small group.

Rediscovered in 1987 and surveyed in 1988, the `well' contained an inscription probably depicting the Hebrew word sochalim meaning flowing and often written with mayim (water) to denote a mikveh. The structure, built over a spring, is described, and a history of Jewish activity in Bristol provided.

Notes the accidental destruction of a wall-painting by workers involved in redecoration of the originally Norman church c 1967. Experts had interpreted the remains of the work as representing the Virgin Mary. Alternatively, it could be St Christopher.

Reports nineteenth-century work, mostly by Clayton and Bell, to restore the stained glass windows. The restoration of each section is noted, and the subsequent drive for a measure of uniformity in design and colour also mentioned.

Notes obelisks, pyramids, façades, and graves exhibiting Egyptian influence. These include examples both pre- and post-Napoleonic campaign of 1798-1800, and after the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922.

Details of work listed by parish.

Tribute to the eminent Romanist and museum archaeologist who had a long association with the Bristol and Gloucestershire Society and to whom this volume of the Transactions is dedicated.