Telford dig discovery confirmed as prehistoric flint

The discovery of the piece of core trimming flake – which mostly likely formed some kind of tool – has been hailed as “significant” by archaeologists that have evaluated the find. It probably dates back to approximately 10,000 BC.

The archaeological dig which was funded by the Parks for People Lottery programme took place at former site of the Stone Row houses within Telford Town Park in late October.

More than 30 volunteers came forward to help with the four day dig, with the main aim being to find artefacts relating to the former row of houses, which were all demolished in the 1960s.

However, the dig turned up a surprise prehistoric discovery in the form of the piece of flint. Telford’s proud industrial past – involving much mining and quarrying work - means that finds of earlier archaeological deposits are comparatively rare.

Kate Page-Smith, of Nexus Heritage who managed the dig on behalf of Telford & Wrekin Council, said: “To find any archaeology from before the post-medieval period in Telford is very exciting but to find a prehistoric flint is thrilling.

“This shows that it is possible to find out more information about the early origins of the area and the people who lived here hundreds and even thousands of years ago.”

Councillor Liz Clare, cabinet member for Leisure Services and Culture, said: “We are all very excited about what we may find at the next excavation in the Town Park.”

No confirmed prehistoric artefacts with a secure providence have previously been found in the Telford area.

The flint is damaged, most likely from agricultural activity, but is unlikely to have travelled too far.

One flake is not conclusive proof of prehistoric activity in the area but it does prove that earlier archaeological remains can survive in places associated with large scale industrial centres.