with any of the usual agents used by entomoligists, but for the
beginner I would recommend amyl acetate, which is easily
and cheaply obtainable. A few drops of this in a glass tube
will leave the insects in a relaxed condition for subsequent
mounting. To send flies through the post it is best to
pack them (unmounted) in a very small box between layers of
cellulose wadding: never use cotton wool, since the strands
get tangled with legs and wings, to the detriment of the
specimens.
Send information and specimens to R.M. Payne, 49 Galton
Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex.
EXCAVATION OF A RED HILL
During the summer of 1970 the Colchester Archaeological
Group carried out a preliminary investigation of a pre-
historic salt making site at Sea Road, near Maldon, Essex.
Known locally as Red Hills, these sites are found in large
numbers among the creeks and marshes of Essex; but little
is known of the method of operation or the duration of
active use.
Thanks to the co-operation of the farmer and the
fortunate period in his crop rotation, we were able to have
the use of the site for three months from the beginning of
September.
Important information was found which included working
surfaces, artifacts, Belgic pottery, many sherds of salt
drying vessels, a man-made gully for the introduction of
sea water and two groups of clay-lined evaporation tanks.
A second season of excavation is planned to begin on
1st. August 1972 and digging will go on every day, except
Mondays, including weekends.
Volunteers are urgently required who need only to be
interested; even if they have never dug before, they will
soon pick it up and find themselves fully involved.
Enquiries to Mrs. K. de Brisay, Corner Cottage, Layer-
de-la-Haye, Colchester, C02 OLE. Tel: Layer-de-la-Haye 274
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