AN amazing 190 million-year-old fossil unearthed on the Jurassic Coast is being displayed in Purbeck.

The stunning relic of an ichthyosaur, found near Charmouth, arrived at Wareham Library yesterday and visits Swanage Library on Thursday December 6.

Discovered by Dr Paul Davis from London's Natural History Museum two-and-a-half years ago, the fossil of the ancient marine reptile normally resides as part of the museum's collection.

Since the find, experts have carefully conserved and prepared the ichthyosaur for its temporary return to its former home on the Jurassic Coast.

Dr Davis said: "It's a real thrill to see the ichthyosaur going on show so near to where it was found.

"The Jurassic Coast holds a wealth of stories about life millions of years ago and this display highlights how new finds are continually adding to our understanding."

It is thought the specimen could prove to be a new species due to the unusual location of the find.

The travelling display will feature the fossilised skeleton of the ichthyosaur with two accompanying panels of information about the Jurassic Coast and the fossils found there.

Each of the towns being used to display the exhibit are Jurassic Coast "gateway towns", the aim being to enable residents to find out more about the outstanding natural heritage on their doorstep.

Dr Sam Rose, from the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Team, said they wanted to show the fossil in places you might not expect to see such a thing.

Cllr Hilary Cox, Dorset County Council's environ-ment portfolio holder said: "Having been in hiding for 190 million years, it is about time that the ichthyosaur put itself about more."