The evaluation aims were met through the excavation of a series of 14 trial trenches, each 30 m by 2 m, within the proposed water treatment area, representing approximately 5% by area. A further four trenches were excavated along the line of the proposed drainage ditch. The overburden was removed under close archaeological supervision by a 13 tonne[360�] mechanical excavator fitted with a toothless bucket. Each trench was excavated to the top of the upper peat horizon in the first instance. Where no archaeology was identified, sondages were excavated at each end of the trench to the top of the marine alluvium, in order to establish the potential for archaeology at lower levels. Fieldwork methods and recording The evaluation was conducted in compliance with the standards outlined in the Institute of Field Archaeologist's Standard and Guidance for Archaeological Field Evaluations (as revised 2001), and Standards For Field Archaeology in the East of England (East Anglian Archaeology Occasional Paper 14) excepting where they were superseded by statements made below: A unique-number site code was agreed with the Norfolk Museums Service. Arrangements have also been made with the Norfolk Museums Service for the deposition of the archive subject to agreement with the Client. Service Location Before excavation began the statutory authorities were consulted, for information regarding the presence of any below/above ground services. Trial trench locations were 'swept' before and during excavation with a Cable Avoidance Tool to verify the absence of any underground services. Excavation Each trench was excavated using a 360� tracked excavator with a toothless bucket under the direct supervision of an archaeologist. Spoil was stored adjacent to, but at a safe distance from trench edges. Machining continued in spits down to the top of the undisturbed natural geology or archaeological deposits, whichever was first encountered. Once archaeological deposits were exposed further excavation proceeded by hand. A sample of each feature and of each feature or deposit type, for example pits, postholes, and ditches, was excavated and recorded. Recording The trenches were cleaned by hand, as necessary, and the revealed features were sampled to determine their extent and nature, and to retrieve finds and environmental samples. All archaeological features were planned and where excavated their sections drawn at scales of 1:20. All features were photographed using colour slide and ...