AN EXCAVATION in Alresford that has uncovered Bronze Age treasure will be featured on a BBC archaeology show.
The investigation at Alresford Down, led by environmental consulting group RPS and archaeological consultants PCA Winchester, will be shared on the telly as part of BBC 2 show Digging for Britain.
The programme will highlight the historical significance of the site and treasures that have been uncovered since July.
The excavation, on Tichborne Down, has revealed the remains of a Bronze Age (2300 BC – 800 BC) barrow cemetery and one of the largest Anglo-Saxon cemeteries found in Hampshire, with more than 120 graves identified dating back to the 7th century AD.
READ MORE: Home builder discovers Bronze Age graves on Alresford development site
Among the discoveries is a poorly preserved skeleton of a young woman buried with a rare gold disc pendant and adorned with intricate gold filigree forming a cross shape. Many of the other graves included small iron knives, while one was buried with a sword.
All work has been overseen by Winchester District’s archaeological advisor Tracy Matthews. With archaeological investigations now complete and the findings recorded and preserved, Taylor Wimpey has been given the go-ahead to start developing the site, ready for the launch in Spring 2025. The company plans to commemorate the historical findings on the site by installing a plaque or information board in the public open space, pending approval from Winchester City Council.
The archaeological findings will be exhibited at the Winchester Museum. Alresford Down will be on Digging for Britain on BBC at 8pm on Wednesday, January 3.
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