When a water main was cut west of the Cattle Market (Middleborough) a number of small upright posts (such as might retain the side of a creek or a staithe) were observed. Pieces of leather were found in waterlogged deposits, including parts of two sandals, and clippings of leather from a 'cobblers workshop'. In the black soil, not far below the surface there was frequently a layer of yellow soil and gravel. The observation was made by Mr Calver but is undated. A list of finds is provided by Hull <1> Another note by Hull records that trench was cut in 1956 running from Kings Meadow along Causton Road over the bridge to the cattle market and the waterworks 'In crossing the allotments the trench was only about 4ft deep and was cut in an old marsh or river-bed. The soil was peaty black mud, with an irregular stratum of gravel over it in places. From the peat came the remains of two leather sandals, the first we have ever had in Colchester, and scraps of others, with leather clippings from a cobblers shop'.<2>