www.stonehenge-druids.org

Our comment:

 

We would very much like to thank Sebastian for this update and the detailed insight into the consultation process and progress that it provides. I think that everyone interested in the reburial issue should find this to be of interest and welcome the open and forthright approach taken, and respect shown by communicating with us proactively in this way.

 

Frank

News Page 10 - 8th July 2009

 

Breaking news from the Riverside Project:

R.P. Ancestor update from Mike Parker-Pearson

 

“Work is progressing on the Aubrey Hole cremations. Just over half the
bones have been analysed but the preliminary results on those that have are
interesting.

 

Where sex can be ascertained, all are male.

 

So far, we have a  minimum number of just 2 children out of an estimated 60 burials. So, the population appears to be predominantly adult males. This is unexpected,
given that the only cremation burial that could be sexed from Atkinson's
excavations is that of a young adult woman.

There are few indications of pathology. One individual had a benign soft tissue
tumour which altered the shape of the bone. Others have indications of
arthritis in the lower back. Generally this seems to have been a fairly
healthy group of men.

Samples for radiocarbon dating cannot be selected until all the bones have
been analysed (we must ensure that we don't get duplicate dates off the same
person). The cremations are in the University of Sheffield and will need to
remain there until radiocarbon dating and final reporting are completed
(some time in 2010).

I hope this is of interest, and I will keep you up to date as work progresses.”
 

Mike Parker Pearson
 

 

I would like to thank Mike on behalf of the Stonehenge Druids for his generosity in keeping us informed as to the progress being made with our Ancestors remains. Mike is well liked and respected by Druids because he is a down to earth and honourable man with a passion for the past that we also share.

 

Frank Somers