EDO5446 - Land at rear of 24 West Borough, Wimborne Minster; evaluation 2002

An evaluation carried out in connection with proposed development. Three trenches, each measuring 1.50m by 3m, were excavated by machine. Trenches 1 and 3 contained topsoil and horticultural soil of post-medieval and modern date, between 0.52m and 0.80m thick, and directly over natural gravels. Trench 2 revealed a similar soil of probable horticultural origin over a layer of dumped material which itself sealed two features. Both were large features extending beyond the limits of the trench. One was interpreted as either a quarry pit or the beginning of construction of a well, which had been abandoned. The other cut was more shallow, and of unknown purpose. No evidence was recovered to indicate the presence of buildings or settlement on the site. The presence of medieval pottery suggests that this was a backland area, corroborating documentary evidence for the extension of the town in the early 13th century.