RESIDENTS of Middlezoy in Somerset have been discovering more about the lives of those who made the village their home thousands of years ago, just as they are about to welcome those buying new homes built by Summerfield.
Before commencing work on the 26 new build homes located off Back Lane, Summerfield Homes appointed Context One Heritage and Archaeology to carry out excavations of the site.
Like several nearby villages, Middlezoy was once an island settlement surrounded by the wetlands before they were drained. Finds from the excavations revealed that people were hunting and farming on the land around 3,500 years ago.
Local people and members of Mick Aston’s Young Archaeologists (MAYA) took part in the dig. The archaeologists gave weekly tours to visitors, showing off what they had found, and held an Open Day at the end of the excavation. A poster has now been produced to go on display in the sales centre, putting their work into context.
Among the highlights of the discoveries was a Middle Bronze Age farmstead along with flint tools from the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods. Archaeologists also uncovered animal bones, pottery, grinding stones, and tools used for spinning and leather working. All giving an insight into ancient ways of life.
The Bronze Age roundhouse that once stood on the farm is just opposite the net zero homes that are being built by Summerfield. The properties feature solar PV panels, air source heat pumps, and other modern energy efficient features. The mixed development will include one, two, three, and four bedroom homes, of which ten will be handed over to a local housing association.