Journal of the Chester Archaeological Society 59

Makes a statistical analysis of the distribution of finds by altitude and by solid geology, the second giving more positive results than the first. The pattern suggests EBA-MBA settlement on coastal sites and valley floors, with increasing colonization of the upper reaches of rivers in LBA. However, cemeteries of the earlier period were often on higher ground. The distribution bears little relation to 'trade routes', and nearly all the objects are of local (N English) manufacture with almost no continental or Irish imports.

Limited excavation demonstrated that Smith and Stell were in error in suggesting that the hall had a boat-shaped plan indicating survival of pre-Conquest building traditions in 14th century. Smith and Stell's measurements were taken at wall-plate level, not cill-beam level where there is less variation. The stone base-walls under the cill show no significant variation. Moreover, the base of the spere truss is nearly at a right angle to the wall. Post-holes of three timber buildings and indications of another masonry structure were found under the stone base-walls. EW