Development of the Thames drainage system in Early and Middle Pleistocene times

Abstract

SummaryPre-Anglian terrace stages of the proto-Thames system are traced from the present middle Thames area into Essex and south East Anglia. Gravel composition indicates that each of the main terrace stages is associated with an influx of far-travelled material, probably signifying at least three phases of pre-Anglian glaciation in the south Midlands. Gravel composition also indicates the occurrence of major changes during Early and Middle Pleistocene times in the extent of the Thames catchment, and in the disposition of the main drainage lines. The important role of the Goring Gap in the development of the drainage system is noted, and the nature and distribution of Anglian fluvioglacial gravels are described.