This summary report has been prepared with the permission of the author, Susannah Gill, at Manchester University published early in 2003. Their cooperation in releasing some key findings is very much appreciated.
She has now agreed to let us publish the full document (May 2005) (this is a large file)
A core was taken near the edge of the Ings behind the suggested defensive line of the Saxon army. It was subjected to a detailed environmental study.
The core displayed a well defined set of rings, analogous to annual tree rings. By counting the rings it was possible to date the core back beyond 1066. The core also indicated that the local environment had been stable before and since that time.
The precise extent of the Ings in 1066 has not been mapped and must remain a matter of speculation until it is fully investigated.
The flat land behind the site was not a possible battlesite in 1066. The Ings would have divided the forces of Morcar and Edwin once they lost their position along 'The Ditch'. The Ings would have provided the troops retreating along the river with protection on their left flank.
All this is in line with the sequence.
It would be very useful to have more samples throughout the battlesite. The plans for an extensive study of the area both side of the Ouse is well underway.