Medieval Archaeology 24

A survey of possible sources of Merovingian influence on 7th century Northumbria focuses on the documented travels of Benedict Biscop and Wilfrid. Among sites in southern Gaul Lerins, where Benedict Biscop's visit coincided with the establishment of a communal life, is given extended discussion. The Paris region and NW Gaul seem to have been particularly influential on the development of Northumbrian architecture; the author presents a summary of present knowledge about ecclesiastical buildings in these areas. R N B

SX 510847. The earliest structure (presumably the firme domus of the 1195 Pipe Rolls) was a free-standing purpose-built jail. The upper part was demolished and entirely rebuilt in c mid-13th century when the old ground floor was filled in, a mound piled against the tower's exterior, and an enclosing ditch dug; a small bailey was added. The 'castle' continued in use as a prison for the Devon stannaries until 18th century. Au(abr)

Catalogues the ten known oak spade blades from Britain, which form a coherent group. The earliest is of 10th or 11th century, although most are from 12-14th century contexts. They appear to be shovels for use with soft, loose materials. D G

Quarr stone (from the Isle of Wight) was more extensively used than has been thought, appearing in Norman ecclesiastical buildings in E Kent and the White Tower in London. Its widespread use was probably confined to c 1070-1120, after which it appears only in the Hampshire basin. D G