On 2nd December, Adrian Cox, an archaeologist with the National Trust, spoke to members of the Henley  Archaeological and Historical Group about the recent work to restore  the White Horse of Uffington in association with members of the local community, and  on on his  excavations this summer  at Greys Court.

These excavations took place on the Oval Lawn, formerly a courtyard, at the property. The locations of the 4X4 metre trenches were guided by parch marks in the dry summer and by a geophysical survey. The excavations, in partnership with SOAG, discovered a brick wall which formed the southern boundary of the courtyard. Fragments of glazed floor tiles were found, suggesting a high status building nearby. The foundations of a 16th century wall and a brick lined drain were uncovered as well as the 13th/14th century curtain (defensive) wall which lined up with the two towers.

After the dig, the trenches were restored to their original condition, to the satisfaction of the property’s gardener. The presence of the archaeologists increased the number of visitors, much to the gratification of the property manager. It is hoped that the Trust will allow further investigations, notably of the raised area north of the Oval Lawn on which surveys suggest that a substantial building stood.

On 10 December, the group held a Christmas party, at which a number of members spoke about historical objects they owned.