A Countryfile star apologised after a “naughty” message was found on one of his artefacts.
The BBC programme returned on Sunday night (March 24) and saw presenter Anita Rani visit Hinton Ampner in Winchester. The 46-year-old delved into the secrets of the Georgian country estate, exploring its fascinating past and uncovering the stories of the people who once called it home.
She spoke to director of excavations Dr Andrew Birley to find out more about the Roman fort, Vindolanda. Countryfile star Charlotte Smith had visited the spot eight months prior, and during tonight’s episode, Anita wanted to find out the update on what’s been happening at the treasure trove.
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Andrew said that his team has had an “amazing couple of years” since Countryfile last filmed at the location, revealing they have found thousands of artefacts. Anita asked if Andrew could show some of the items they had discovered.
(Image: BBC)
“So what are some of your favourites? You’re highlights, please, Andrew,” Anita asked. Andrew explained that the team after often “blown away” by written material and evidence of writing.
He then held up a stylus pen which was used on wooden wax tablets. Andrew then showcased a huge stone, which he revealed was too heavy to bring into his office.
(Image: BBC)
Before sharing a photo of the item, Andrew was forced to apologise as there was a rude symbol sprawled across the front. “I’ve got a picture of it and it’s a bit of a naughty message so I apologise to viewers for it.”
Anita responded: “It’s alright. Countryfile viewers love a naughty message.” Andrew then held up the photo of the stone, and a phallic symbol could be seen on it.
(Image: BBC)
He said: “The phallic symbol is for fertility and for good luck and everything else that goes with it.” The presenter laughed: “Brilliant! That’s proper graffiti. I love it.”
Andrew also showed a torn up shoe that likely belonged to an 18 to 24-month-old child. Andrew explained that the discovery of the shoe is special because it represents the different types of people who lived in those spaces, including children, women and slaves.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
