By Alex Pope
BBC News, East
An "exciting" discovery of a Neolithic or early Bronze Age monument has been unearthed in an archaeological dig.
Albion Archaeology made the find in a field in Biddenham, just outside Bedford, where homes are to be built.
Project manager Iain Leslie said an Iron Age settlement and Anglo-Saxon remains were also discovered.
"This level of investigation of a particular area is relatively rare and offers a unique opportunity to better understand our ancestors," he said.
The monument is among the earliest remains on the site. It would have formed part of a wider landscape of similar monuments known to have existed locally within a loop of the river Great Ouse, Mr Leslie said.
It is thought to have been constructed about 6,000 years ago and likely "provided a focus for ceremonial and ritual activities," he added.
Evidence of an Iron Age settlement was also found, including several storage pits and a roundhouse.
"The most unexpected discovery was the presence of relatively extensive Anglo-Saxon remains" with a "sunken-featured building" and an oven, Mr Leslie said.
"As archaeologists we are very excited about the findings," he said.
"We are building up a really fascinating picture of the various stages of past occupation in this area.
"The remains uncovered are of at least regional significance."
Mr Leslie added: "The investigations have revealed a wealth of information about the previous inhabitants of the area, stretching back as much as 6,000 years.
"The remains offer a fantastic addition to our knowledge of Neolithic, early Bronze Age, Iron Age and Anglo-Saxon settlement in the area."
The investigations are being carried out in conjunction with RPS Consulting Services, on behalf of builders Dandara.
Planning consent was given with a condition that an archaeological dig was to take place, with the findings recorded before construction could start.
Chris Higgins, from Dandara, said: "It's great to have an advanced understanding of such key periods of history and to have a unique opportunity to appreciate the historical importance of the site."
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-57926247
Prehistoric monument found on Biddenham housebuilding site
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Prehistoric monument found on Biddenham housebuilding site
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