Regardless of weather, and at their own expense the students work long hours, taking few breaks. Most stay for a two week period, although some, like David Norcott, may stay longer. King Alfred's staff and students have established good relationships with villagers, who show a keen interest in the excavations. This year, Students were invited to assist at a further investigation in the grounds of the Bishop's Palace at nearby Wells. The resistivity meter has enabled us to reconstruct some of the earlier garden features, including what looks like an underground tunnel.
Legend has it that such a tunnel once ran from the palace into the town.
The teams return to Winchester at the end of July, after filling in the site and removing their equipment. Participating students will then select an aspect of their work on which to base their dissertations.