ARCHAEOLOGISTS working on Bailey Hill in Mold have uncovered some exciting finds as part of recent redevelopment work.

Bailey Hill is the site of an early medieval castle established by the Normans in the late 11th Century.

It has a characteristic motte or earth mound forming a defensive raised platform and a large enclosed bailey or courtyard.

Members of Clwyd Powys Archaeological Trust (CPAT) have discovered the foundations of a large masonry wall on the edge of the Inner Bailey.

The wall could be part of the outer defensive fortification or simply form part of a range of domestic buildings such as a kitchen or workshop.

Evidence of medieval earthen floors have also been detected which indicate buildings in use during the 12th and 13th centuries.

This was a turbulent period in history when the castle was attacked firstly by Dafydd ap Llewelyn and later re-taken by the English under Edward I.

Further scientific analyses will be undertaken as part of the post-excavation work to establish an accurate date for the structures as well as to better understand the purpose and importance of this part of the inner bailey.

Jo Lane, Bailey Hill project officer, said: “The discovery of the wall is extremely exciting for the project and for the community as a whole.

"A masonry structure further demonstrates the importance of the site and the Bailey Hill Research Volunteers are excited to incorporate this information into the new interpretation for the site.

"The Bailey Hill Tripartite Group are now looking at ways on how to feature the wall within the redevelopment work.”

Regular updates regarding the redevelopment work is displayed on an information board just inside of the main entrance of the park as well as on the Bailey Hill social media pages, Facebook: @BaileyHillProjectOfficer and Twitter: @bh_officer.

Funding for the project has been secured from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, LEADER funding through Cadwyn Clwyd, Tourism Amenity Investment Support, Landfill Disposals Tax Communities Scheme as well as from the generosity and fundraising efforts of the local community and other organisations.

For more information with regards to the project, contact Jo Lane on 01352 758532 or email baileyhill@moldtowncouncil.org.uk