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This year as part of Doors open Day 2010 there is a Archelogical Investigation being done at the site of the paisley Abbey Drain.

This shall focus on three main aims:

1. To determine the external width and the condition of the outer fabric of the drain.

2. To investigate the survival of archelogical deposits over and adjacent to the drain that may also provide information regarding the construction of the drain and the layout of the medieval monastic precinct.

3. To investigate the later use of the site in the terms of the development of the town of Paisley and the more recent tennements and streets.


THE DRAIN

The floor of the drain is approximately 3.9m below ground level and consists, at this point, of a rounded 2m high and 1m wide arch ( taken from RCAHMS survey ). The drain runs for about 70m to the east under Cotton Street and changes shape from a pointed arch, to a rounded arch to flat roof. several smaller drains have been noted running into the drain at roof level suggesting the presence of buildings nearby in addition a possible medieval manhole has been identified. The trench this year has been located above the medieval manhole and one of the side drains to enable investigation of these features.

Watch out for exclusive pictures of the Abbey Cloisters dig later in the week.

Thanks Westender, very interesting.

Unfortunately there was rain in Paisley overnight which let to some water in the trench this morning and unfortunately holds things back a bit. Prayers for dry weather for the rest of the week are needed with the dig lasting until sunday.

Currently putting all pictures taken of this years dig into the one link so shall post it here later tonight.

Weather has got sunny here late in the afternoon lets hope it stays like this.

Hope so WE but it doesn't look promising, more rain forecast.

Aye Scotty,a wee bit rain forecast for everyday,who knows,they may be wrong
FINGERS CROSSED

Dont know if Ill manage anyhow,got a lot to do