This year has seen a number of rural and semi-rural projects, notably the burial ground excavation at Ballumbie and the very large evaluation at Loch Lomond, but also smaller survey and fieldwork projects, for example at Innerhadden and in the Carse of Gowrie.

Ceramic and archaeozoological work for other units have continued to play an important part in our workload, and the HS-funded survey of monastic industrial sites has continued a long-running series of such thematic surveys. Particularly important has been the re-launch of the Perth High Street post-excavation project, after a period of uncertainty.

The first phase of the Perth signage project was installed last year, and continues to wear well and attract public interest. The second phase of work has made good progress, and will soon be ready to go into production.

SUAT continues to be well represented on outside bodies, with David Bowler serving as Publications Convenor of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and on the Council of the local society (PSNS). Derek Hall serves on the TAFAC Council, is the Editor of Medieval Ceramics, and is a founding member of the Scottish Church Heritage Research. Catherine Smith serves on the committee of the Abertay Historical Society and on the Council of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.

An important staff change this year has been Adrian Cox’s departure to Historic Scotland as an Inspector. Chris Fyles has returned to SUAT as a permanent member of the field team, and will take an important role in building up our survey capabilities

We have continued to benefit from the help of volunteers, students and school placements, especially in dealing with the archives of older, unfunded projects.

Thanks are due as always to the staff for their energy and dedication. Particular thanks are due to the Chairman, Vice-Chair and Trust Council, for their continuing support, advice and encouragement.