Natural shell deposits, former tidal creek bank, Leath Heath (EHER 48588)
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Summary
Though not strictly archaeology, a watching brief in 2013 recorded spreads oyster and cockle shells, which are naturally-derived flood deposits from the former creek and suggest the position of the former tidal creek bank.
Map
Location
| Grid reference | Centred TQ 9693 9792 (116m by 376m) |
|---|---|
| Civil Parish | BURNHAM-ON-CROUCH, MALDON, ESSEX |
Type and Period
Description
July-August 2013. Watching brief.
Several large amorphous spreads of oyster and cockle shells were recorded along the pipeline route around the Leath Heath area, all of which are naturally-derived flood deposits from the former creek, known as cheniers (sand-and-shell banks). Like the Red Hill material (EHER 48587), these deposits are situated between layers of more general alluvium material. The deposits interleave between flood deposits, making their definition difficult, and are generally quite thin (approximately 40mm deep) but extensive, perhaps suggesting the position of a former tidal creek bank. <1>
Finds
Sources
- <1> SEX72723 Watching Brief Report: Letch, A.. 2013. Archaeological Monitoring along the Underground Cable Route for the Middlewick Wind Farm, Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex.