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In August 2018 the stone was prepared to be removed, John Dent former council archaeologist was on hand throughout this work. The hogback was carefully lifted by John Laidlaw and Sons of Jedburgh. It was taken and placed high up in covered, secure storage to allow it to dry out. Once dry, it was going to be restored, cleaned and returned to the churchyard.
On cleaning the trench after the stone was removed two pieces of masonry were found which the stone had been sitting upon. There was also a piece of clay tobacco pipe, as this would probably have been from the 19th Century and was under the stone, it is unlikely that this is the original position the hogback. It was probably repositioned when the church underwent repair.
Preparing the stone for removal
Stone secured and tied
The straps are being attached
The forklift takes the weight
It is on its way
slowly does it easing backwards
Dr Chris Bowles has a closer look
On to the waiting truck
ADHS thought the stone would be away for a few months to allow it to dry and be restored. During this time they fully intended to raise funds to help with this but!! that wasn't to be. However ADHS had made a promise to return the stone, and 2022 was going to be that year.
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