Alderney’s neolithic barrow proves elusive

States archaeologist Dr Phil de Jersey is leading the investigation into the site near the island’s airport where his team had been hoping to find a prehistoric burial site, first discovered in the mid-1850s.

‘We are slightly disappointed that so far there has been no sign of the structure that was reported to be here,’ he said after three days on site.

‘We have found evidence of neolithic occupation and activity as there are pieces of flint.’

He said the seven-man dig team was now planning to expand the search to other areas nearby.

‘It may be however that the structure found in 1853 by the Lukis family has been completely levelled at some time since then,’ he said.

Frederick Corbin Lukis and his sons are responsible for many of the archaeological finds across the Bailiwick and were very interested in ancient burial sites.

They had noted a mound six feet high and 30ft in diameter, with a simple stone slab at the centre which marked the site of a grave. It was believed to date from around 2000BC.

The barrow was thought to be sited at the highest point on the island and had been noted on early maps of the island.

The excavation had been a condition of the planning permission for the runway extension which is currently on hold.

Apart from the lack of any significant finds, Dr de Jersey said the dig, which finishes next Friday, had been going well.

‘If there is nothing here that is good news for the airport expansion as there will be nothing to hold it up,’ he said.

‘Even if we discover nothing, it shows archaeology can have a positive result.’