Summary : A Neolithic "long enclosure" at West Cotton, part of a complex of monuments examined as part of the Raunds area project. The enclosure measures 117 metres by 17 metres internally, and is orientated southwest-northeast. It is defined by a single enclosing ditch which appears to be continuous. The northernmost 26 metres was completely excavated, while the precise location of the long sides and southern terminal were confirmed by machine-cut trial trenches. Evidence from the ditch fills suggests the former presence of internal banks adjacent to the long sides, as well as episodes of localised recutting within the ditches. Few finds were recovered. A few struck flints were found, while a red deer antler rake and two items of cattle bone came from primary fills. The antler rake provided a calibrated radiocarbon date of 3301-2921 BC, and a cattle tibia was dated to 3092-2627 BC. The excavated part of the enclosed area contained no archaeological features, though two tree-throw holes were identified. The long enclosure appears to have been the (or a) focus for subsequent monuments and related activity in the vicinity (see associated monuments). |