Trench 1
Continuing from last week, work in Trench 1 has still focused on the identification and excavation of the pre-Exhibition Centre deposits. Interestingly, these layers have contained a large amount of clay pipe bowls and stems. These appear to change from ornate 19th century designs in the top layers to simpler 16th to 17th century types in the lower layers, showing a continued use of the site through time. Having now stopped finding clay pipe and post-medieval pottery types, we appear to be reaching medieval deposits.

Trench 4
Following the discovery of the medieval hearth at the end of last week, excavation in Trench 4 has continued at a careful pace, especially in the rain for fear of damaging the structure. The hearth already shows evidence of several past disturbances, and it is vital to gain as much information as possible from what remains. As anticipated, removing the mixed and disturbed deposits on top of the hearth has been difficult work.

Trench 5
As in Trench 1, the layers being carefully picked apart are those relating to the pre-Exhibition Centre formal gardening. These deposits are visible in the section of the cut made by the concrete underpinning. However, we have been cautious into not being led to assume that the section reflects the build-up of deposits throughout the rest of the trench, which could lead to hasty excavation.

Trench 6
This week the removal of dumping deposits continued, revealing more of the possible in situ metal working, or what could possibly be a mass of corroded metal working debris. The restricted conditions still make excavation difficult, but despite the conditions and the weather, progress has remained good. A pit cut through these dumps has also been discovered in the north-eastern corner of the trench. However, as we are approaching the depth limit, this may not be able to be investigated by excavation, though it will be recorded and sampled as fully as possible.

Trench 7
Continuing excavation from last week, this week has revealed a possible spread of demolition material from the Exhibition Centre. The north part of the trench seems to show shallow, irregular cut and fill features, the function of which remains unclear. These deposits have yielded a high volume of animal bone, tile and stone and are being sampled for future analysis by specialists.

Trench 9
Beneath the path layers excavated last week, work has continued by removing the series of underlying deposits. The amount of rain this week has meant that trainees from Trench 9 have been focusing on indoor finds processing rather than excavation. Despite the weather, a number of good discoveries have been made, notably a collection of three lead musket balls.