By Federica Bedendo

Copyright bbc

He said they included analysis of bones, teeth and DNA, and radiocarbon dating.

“Her bones suggest she led a hard life, and our reconstruction shows the ruddy complexion of one who has worked outdoors extensively, probably in the fields which would have surrounded the town,” Mr Dean said.

There were indications she had been buried without a coffin and her position in the church yard suggest she was not of high status.

Mr Dean said that was confirmed by teeth and bone analysis, which suggested she had a poor diet with little meat, fish and dairy products.

The woman, estimated to have been about 50 when she died in the 1200s, is believed to have lived in the town all of her life.

Mr Dean said the team was hoping to rebury the Kendal Woman and the other remains.

“We would like to rebury her within the church yard, we obviously have to talk to the owner of the church yard about that, but we think it’s fitting that she’s buried where we excavated her from, so that will be something that hopefully will happen next year.”