MEM25543 - Possible World War II defence or training features (Monument)

RAF c.1946 aerial photographs and LiDAR data may show a number of WW2 defensive excavations (foxholes and one larger excavation, possibly a field gun or tank position) overlooking the triangular road intersections at Hillhead Cross, two km north of Exford.

RAF aerial photographs taken in c. 1946, and later LiDAR data show a number of WW2 defensive excavations (foxholes and one larger excavation, possibly a field gun or tank position at SS8542940451) overlooking the triangular road intersections at Hillhead Cross, two km north of Exford. [1] The originally noted larger excavation, rectangular in shape, was surveyed in March 2024, and was measured at approximately 4m NE/SW, 2.8m NW/SE. It was measured at approximately 0.5m in depth. This is centred on SS 85410 40576. A further hollow, centred on SS 85343 40592, was also measured as part of this survey, also rectangular in shape, and measuring 8.5m N/S, 3m E/W and 1m in depth. This is described as being fairly typical of the hollows in this area. A further smaller rectangular pit was also measured. It is 2m E/W, 1.3m N/S and 0.5m deep. This is centred on SS 85231 40799. [2] There is a suggestion that these hollows were used as defensive pits or foxholes for infantry or machine gun crews, potentially connected with tank training.