Monmouth archaeologists are working with Monmouthshire County Council and the site contractors Linford-Bridgeman to record discoveries during the major renovations taking place at Monmouth's historic Shire Hall.

There have been some interesting finds as well as at least one substantial structural mystery.

Following preliminary trial excavations by Monmouth Archaeology in the cells and cellars beneath the building, the groundworks are proceeding under the conditions of a council watching brief which is being carried out by the professional Monmouth unit.

The structural remains which have been revealed include some massive wall foundations and blocked up doorways and other previously hidden features. The smaller finds include parts of a 'sack' wine bottle dated from the late 1600's as well as Victorian glass, ceramics and paperwork.

In parts of the site at ground level, the works have included digging by the archaeologists following the discovery of animal bones - sheep, pig and bovine with some bones of birds. The latest excavations have been taken over by the archaeologists following the unearthing of bloomery iron slag which may be of medieval or even Roman date.

The early parts of the underground structure are of great interest and include an unexplained very heavy wall with which major parts of the foundations were bonded. This wall is visible as a metre-wide scar on one side of the basement and matched by a corresponding scar on the opposite wall. A trial excavation into the floor between the two scars has revealed that the wall had survived below the ground and was running north-west to south-east, in the same alignment as the existing foundations.

Other interesting features have included an early brick and stone built chute from near the modern ground level towards the basement and what appears to be the sealed-up doorway for the judges.

Stephen Clarke of Monmouth Archaeology expressed the unit's thanks for the help they were receiving from Mr. Keith Davies and the staff of Monmouthshire County Council and from Mr. John Hanmer of Linford-Bridgeman.

Photographs and plans of the Shire Hall renovation can be seen at Monmouth Tourist Information Centre.