Last updated 15:54, Wednesday, 23 April 2008

MEMBERS enjoyed a fascinating outing on April 12 with a short walk from Ravenglass to Saltcoats in the enthusiastic company of archaeologist Clifford Jones.

His recent publication, Hadrian’s Coastal Route is a walker’s guide to the little-known Western Hadrianic frontier from Ravenglass to Bowness-on-Solway. It aims to act as a catalyst to promote the attractions and archaeology of the West Coast as opposed to those on the more well-known Hadrian’s Wall.

Clifford explained features of the terrain and coast which point to a line of Roman defences stretching from Flimby to Ravenglass. These possibly consisted of a system of earthworks, ditches and wooden palisades, regularly supplemented by wooden watchtowers. These helped defend against coastal raiders seeking to steal livestock and to aid Roman troops in policing and taxing their local subjects.

The group has a full summer programme of outings and activities. The next outing will be a guided walk of Keswick on 10 May – details from Len Watson, secretary, on 019467 24634.