In the extreme NW corner of a playing field, close to Park Road, is the extant pedestal of a spigot mortar emplacement. It stands some 18" out of the grass, measures c.3' 6" across, and is surmounted by the stainless steel pintle on which the gun was mounted. Typically, these pedestals were constructed within a concrete-lined pit and the remains of this may survive beneath grass level. This emplacement was probably one of two at this location, the other is indicated in contemporary records as having stood on the other side of Park Road to the NW of this position (SMR 20518/MCC5300).

See SMR 20515 for more details of spigot mortars. Three photos of site.<1>

SITE ASSESSMENT: At the time of compiling this report, just two spigot mortar emplacements have been found extant in Colchester. This example is therefore a rare survivor of the town’s former defences.

See also <2> & <3>.