Friends of Park Farm Medieval Fishponds Pond Survey
10am-4pm, meet at Sheiling School, Park Road, Thornbury BS35 1HP, OS grid reference ST 63416 90933

Friends of Park Farm Medieval Fishponds have arranged an archaeological survey of two of the historic ponds within the Sheiling School estate.

We will initially gather outside Thornbury Park House, at the bottom of the school drive on your left, where the reception is located. There is limited parking on site which should be sufficient for the number of participants that we anticipate.

As this is a residential school for children with learning disabilities with some boarders on site at the weekend, it is essential that we try to move around the estate as a group. It will be a requirement that everyone who joins us signs in and out and carries a pass.

Participants should bring packed lunches and drinks.

I’m sure you will all be aware of the tragic event that occurred in Thornbury this week. As a result of this, there is currently a very heavy police presence and cordon around the Vicarage in Castle Street. There is a possibility that this could affect our plans, however be assured we have an alternative pond to survey. The rest of this entry relates to our first choice of pond and so may be subject to change on the day.

Once we have carried out the formalities, we will set off for the Pond, which is located in the Hatch Estate (off Kington Lane). We will need to take everything (including lunches and refreshments) with us. It is about a 10 minute walk to the pond.

A room will be provided at The Hatch for the lunch break, and toilet facilities will be available.

Whilst on site we all should have the opportunity to learn about and use these techniques:

· Measuring and drawing using manual methods
· Measuring and drawing with the aid of a "Total Station" (an electronic surveying tool)
· Excavation

As this survey is taking place in Winter it is very weather dependent. Some of the areas to be examined may be muddy and slippery. Suitable clothing and footwear are essential. Wellingtons would probably be the best footwear. I would recommend that you also bring some strong gloves.

The pond is a very complex serpentine shape and has interesting features that may require some limited excavations. So if you own an archaeological trowel please bring it along.

If for any reason you can’t get to the School by 10am, then please ring 07840 550086 when you arrive so that someone can meet you and escort you to the survey site.

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