Overview
- More than 800 whetstones have been recovered at Offerton near Sunderland, alongside 11 stone anchors from the River Wear.
- Durham University analysis indicates Offerton is the first Roman site in Britain quarried specifically for whetstone manufacture.
- Finds span all stages of production, including 65 doubles and a rare treble, with rejects likely failing the Roman army’s 12‑inch standard.
- A sandstone outcrop across the Wear and the unprecedented anchor tally point to river transport between quarry and riverside workshop.
- The community‑led project, supported by Durham University and The Crown Estate, says many more stones likely remain buried, with the discovery featured on BBC Two’s Digging for Britain from today.