Lithological variability of Quaternary slope deposits in the Cheviot Hills, UK

Abstract

Mass-wasting processes have operated on valley-side drifts following Quaternary glaciation in the Cheviot Hills and have resulted in the development of a distinctive landform-sediment association consisting of smoothed slopes underlain by drifts. The resulting landforms are termed ‘solifluction sheets’. A number of slope deposits have been distinguished underlying these solifluction sheets and include resedimented tills, geifractates and weathered granites. The nature and timing of the mass-wasting processes responsible for emplacement of these deposits is discussed. It is argued that the features represent a complex response to periglacial and paraglacial environmental conditions.