Postcode Cache 172 – Sierra Tango 5 Multi-cache
Postcode Cache 172 – Sierra Tango 5
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
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The ST5 postcode region covers Newcastle-under-Lyme and this cache is placed at the location of the sparse visible remnants of the original "New Castle".
The castle was originally constructed some time in the early C12th as a motte and bailey, that is, a large earth mound topped with a palisade and stone/timber tower, and an embanked enclosure containing additional buildings. This was surrounded by a large pool, formed as a result of a dam across the Lyme Brook, at Pool Dam.
At the time of construction, it was built in a low-lying area, and had extensive views all around.
Various modifications and enhancements were undertaken over the years, but its location finally led to its demise and abandonment, as changes in siege warfare, using gunpowder and artillery, meant that it's position was no longer desirable. By 1541 it was falling into decay, and by 1610 it was 'altogether decayed'.
At the coordinates for information board 1 are the partial remains of a castle wall.
Newcastle-under-Lyme was established as a settlement in the later part of the C12th, after the establishment of the castle .
Newcastle's market, called the Stones, was established in 1173, and survives to this day, located on the High Street. The market was originally held on a Sunday, then Saturday, then in Elizabethan times, Monday. Today it operates six days a week with a rotating variety of goods for sale on different days.
"Queens Gardens" at the eastern end of the Ironmarket, contains a bronze statue of Queen Victoria, and provides a magnificent floral display all year round.
For more information about what to do and see in Newcastle, visit (visit link)
The cache is not at the published coordinates.
The posted coordinates are for the first information board, parking is very close by. Walk to each information board and obtain some information from each to work out the final coordinates, which is just a short walk away.
Information board 1
1) The number of letters in each of the first two words on the board = A B
2) There is a picture of items found in the castle remains. The number of letters in the last word of the caption under it = C
Information board 2
3) The number of paces from south to north = DEF
Information board 3
4) The year of the old map of Newcastle drawn by R.M. = GHIJ
The final cache location can be found at
N53 F.E(B+2)C
W2 (A+B).(G+H)(D*2)(G+J)
If you wish to add to the Post Code series please contact fly2live2fly on dragon53lady@yahoo.co.uk for a number
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Zntargvp