 The cheese press has been dated back to the 3rd Century |
A rare Roman cheese press has been found in a ditch near the home of the famous Stilton cheese. The 3rd Century press was found near the village of Stilton in Cambridgeshire by potter Richard Landy.
Archaeologists said the press would have been used to make cheese from the milk of either goats or sheep.
The find suggests the village, after which Stilton cheese is named, may have been associated with cheese-making for more than 1,800 years.
Mr Landy said: "I was elated when I found the press. I have already found extensive evidence of the Roman period from a number of sites around Stilton."
Philippa Walton, county council finds liaison officer, said it was a truly exceptional object found in a very apt spot.