All survey work was completed to appropriate standards, as outlined by existing guidelines (CIfA 2020a; Schmidt et al. 2015). The gradiometer survey was completed using Bartington Grad601-2 gradiometer systems with a data logger. Readings were recorded at a resolution of 0.01 nT and data collected with a traverse interval of 1 m and a sample interval of at least 0.25 m. The survey data was collected on site by traversing across the surface in increments utilising a cart system to achieve the best possible results. Real Time Kinematic (RTK) differential GPS equipment was used to accurately determine the position of the survey equipment and monitor data. Sensors were left to acclimatise outdoors for c.30 minutes prior to balancing at the start of each day's survey. The processing was undertaken using TerraSurveyor64 software and consisted of standard processing procedures. Illustrations were created using QGIS software. Interpretation of identified anomalies was achieved through analysis of anomaly patterning and increases in magnetic response and was aided by examining the available supporting information. The interpretations follow Ecus colour coding and categorisations of anomalies and attempt, where possible, to suggest the nature of the buried feature. The majority of the survey area revealed broadly spaced parallel linear anomalies on a northeast to southwest alignment. These correspond to the historical pattern of land division and are interpreted as evidence of historical cultivation activity such as ridge and furrow. The survey results have also revealed two parallel linear anomalies that are very tentatively interpreted as possible archaeology. However, a modern origin such as land drains cannot be ruled out. Numerous pit-like anomalies have been identified. However, while these could be evidence of extraction or waste disposal pits, they are equally likely to be evidence of localised variation in the topsoil or underlying geological deposits. The remaining anomalies are thought to be natural or modern in origin. Numerous ferrous 'spike' anomalies have been identified that likely relate to modern dispersal or scattering/spreading of metallic materials.
Daniel Yates (Mon,) studied this question.