Investigating the mystery of Montem Mound

An amateur archaeologist claims to have unearthed the secret of Slough's mystery prehistoric Montem Mound.

Eric Fitch, 59, of Taplow, has prepared a report claiming it to be a Bronze Age burial mound dating back more than 3,000 years - to around 1,500 BC. 

The Mound, (Montem being Latin for 'hill') is situated near the Montem Leisure Centre and Ice Arena in Montem Lane and Mr Fitch, an accountant, has worked for Slough Borough Council for 38 years has an office nearby.

He said: "IEvery time I venture out the history of this Mound fascinates me. People have different theories, so I decided to investigate in my spare time and visited local libraries.
"I soon discovered that there are two similar mounds in the region, both burial mounds.

"It is pretty conclusive that Montem Mound is a burial mound originating in the Bronze Age, irrespective of how it was used in later times."

He reckons the Mound is unlikely to contain any treasure, as most Bronze Age mounds contain plain grave goods. The deceased could have been a local chieftain or an important woman.

The Mound is the oldest structure in Slough and a scheduled ancient monument, which means that any unauthorised interference at the site, such as digging, is illegal.

Read more in this week's Express.