Monument record 0970800000 - Test pit at Hillberry, Lillingstone Road

Located on the foot of the churchyard bank, this test pit has helped understand the construction and date for this important village element. Clearly the churchyard was delimited by a stone bank. This may have been timber revetted since the depression F2 can only be interpreted as a posthole. This bank appears to have eroded forming its current profile, possible aided by the removal or collapse of any retaining timbers. The discovery of grogged pottery at the base of this posthole argues for a pre-medieval establishment date. So too does the suggested construction technique. We might begin to see an oval enclosure, marked by a stone bank and revetment, constructed either in the Roman or early medieval period. Its prominent position with outstanding views to west, north and east might suggest a defensive location. Is it the case, therefore, that a pre-Christian site was later Christianized by the establishment of a church within its bounds? Does the presence of this early enclosure act as the focus for the later village? (B1).