Robert Chester MA, the Education Officer at Sewerby Hall and Gardens, gave an intriguing talk on the Anglo Saxon cemetery which had been excavated in 1959 and 1974 during diggings for footing of new buildings at Home Farm. 59 graves had been found and after talking about orientation and condition went on to describe three graves in particular. These were unusual as the bodies had been buried in a prone position (face downward). One grave did not contain the remains of a body but from the articles found was of a high born female because of the quality of the brooches and sleeve clips. The cloth of her cloak had fossilised onto the buckle and Robert had brought 3D printed replicas of the grave findings (the originals are at Sewerby Hall).

The most interesting grave, Grave 41, has caused much discussion around the country, as it appears that the female, about 35 years old, could have been buried alive with a large stone keeping her in position as the grave was filled. On further excavation another grave, Grave 49, was discovered below of a high status female about 17-25years old in a coffin, and one theory was that the female above could have had something to do with her death. Many other theories have been put forward and will continued be so. Robert finished his talk by informing the audience that some of the bones from the graves were currently at a university being analysed which may give a further insight to the burials.

Past Prior Maureen Bell thanked Robert on behalf of the Society.