The geophysical survey identified a similar pattern of linear features in the central field as those identified in the northern field. A series of north-east to south-west features running the length of the field, with a further feature matching the outline of the field were depicted on the survey.

These were identified on the ground in three trenches. A ditch feature was recorded aligning with the geophysical survey anomalies. This linear had been cut by an early type of field drain, made from a layer of flat bricks, topped with a U-shaped brick, suggesting that the feature predates 19th century, although no firm dating evidence was recovered. A feature recorded in one of the evaluation trenches had a very uneven cut and patchy organic fill, suggesting that this may be the remnants of a former hedgerow.

A futher trench contained a well-defined feature, orientated north to south, with the uniformity of the cut and single solid fill suggesting that this feature may be relatively modern and remnant of some agricultural practice, though no finds were recovered to confirm this.

Five evaluation trenches all contained ditches that were identified on the geophysical survey of the site. The north to south ditches identified in two trenches were of a very similar nature, with similar dimensions and a wide U-shaped cut. They also both had a single fill consisting of a dark, loose, silty-clay. As they ran parallel this suggests that they may have been contemporary and are likely the remains of former agricultural practice. Similarly, the ditches identified in two other trenches also had a very similar fill and profile, but here were on an east to west alignment, although seem likely to be of the same agricultural system of ditches.

Another trench had a very steep sided linear with straight vertical sides and a flat base. This feature was identified on the geophysical survey but does not appear on historical mapping. However, the straightness of the sides and the uniformity of the fill suggest that it may have a more modern origin.

In a final trench, two anomalies identified as ‘linear’ on the geophysical survey were targeted. Features were identified in the areas of these anomalies; however, they proved to be large pits instead of linear features. The largest of the pits cut another pit, and was cut by, a third pit within the trench. The function of these pits is unknown, and no dating evidence was recovered. The number of layers of fill within the feature suggest a long period of deposition rather than a brief infilling event. Similar pits were recorded to the northern end of the trench, although again there was no dating evidence recovered for these features.

George Beardow, 2021, Tiln Solar Farm, Retford, Nottinghamshire: Archaeological Evaluation Phase 1 (Unpublished document). SNT6003.