A 2% sample of the c.13ha was evaluated, which translated into 1300 linear metres of 2m wide trenching over 35 trenches. Evidence indicating prehistoric activity, predominantly dating from the later Mesolithic to early Neolithic periods was found in and around large palaeo-channel type features toward the south of Fields 1 and 5. This activity presented as flint scatters, and charcoal rich deposits adjacent to these palaeo-channels, in addition to limited later Mesolithic flints and Neolithic pottery recovered from the channel fills. The nature of this activity is unclear and may relate to permanent settlement of the area or a seasonal occupation. Although only limited dating evidence was recovered, probable Romano-British activity was encountered in the north-west of the site. This activity was primarily focused in the area of Field 3, although ditches recorded in the south of Field 2 and the north-west of Field 4, appear to mark the limits of this phase of activity. It is likely that these features represent an enclosure on flatter ground to the west of the River Cam. Similar enclosures from this period have been identified to the immediate north of the site (HER PRN 48697). The nature of this activity is unclear, possibly representing settlement activity or a dense group of agricultural features. The northern corner of the Field 1 contained an undated ditch and fire pit. No dating evidence was recovered from these features, although their stratigraphic position, below a layer of loosely dated colluvium, may indicate a prehistoric or Romano-British date. These features appeared relatively isolated within the site as a whole and it is unclear what sort of activity they represent.
Gareth Dickinson (Thu,) studied this question.