SEVERAL skeletons have been turned up during work on new flood defences in Upton.

The remains, which date from the 18th and 19th century, could be part of a burial ground known to have existed in the area around Waterside.

Archaeologists are recording the remains and have temporarily moved them in line with a Ministry of Justice licence.

They will eventually be reburied in consecrated ground elsewhere.

The dig has held up the work schedule for the flood works by three days, with the builders now working out how to make up the time.

When the existing road bridge was built in the 1940s, burials were found close to the current remains, which could be part of an extension to the cemetery around the church of St Peter and St Paul. Archaeologists are also keeping a watch for evidence of an old stone bridge and quay.

Ed Wilson, project archaeologist, said: “The scheme has provided an exciting opportunity to understand how Upton developed through mediaeval and later periods.

“By examining the burials we may be able to tell the population of Upton something about their local ancestors and how the town grew over the centuries.”

Any findings will eventually go on display.