Newbury |
Report
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One of the suggestions arising from the braainstorming session was the possibility that the geology or geography of the are may have something to do with the increase in leukaemia.
Although it was already known that the substrata did not include granite or other rocks which may emit radon gas, it was decided to plot the cases against the geological map to check for any correlation.
The report looks at the information based on the following subheadings:
The Kennet valley is, not surprisingly comprised of alluvial deposits and river sands and gravel. The surrounding hills are mainly chalk with plateau sands and gravel, particularly to the south.
Plotting the reported leukaemia cases against the geological structure shows no apparent correlation. This line of investigation with therefore not be pursued.
Newbury is located in the Kennet Valley and has for centuries been a crossing point of the river for traffic and trade moving north-south. The waterways system in the valley is very complex with islets, the canal and tributaries weaving a complex pattern along the valley floor.
The town, since its early days, has developed and filled the shallow hollow created by the river valley and surrounding plateau areas.
Map and further analysis under construction
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Revised 2 April 98 NJB