AFTER more than a decade the identity of a 17th Century ship wrecked off the Poole coast has been revealed.

The so-called Swash Channel Wreck was discovered in a sand and shingle bank outside Poole Harbour in 2004.

Experts believe it to be a Dutch merchant vessel named The Fame which foundered in a storm in March 1631.

The wreck is significant not only because of its age, but also because of its distinct carvings, indicative of high status and wealth.

The name was revealed at an event to mark its rudder on Thursday night (Mar23), which was raised from the seabed in 2013.

It is now on public display at Poole Museum along with other recovered artefacts.

The 8.4m (28ft) rudder, with a moustachioed face carved into it, was lifted on to Poole Quay by Bournemouth University marine archaeologists in 2013 after almost a decade of investigation and excavation work.

The carved rudder was then excavated and conserved by the York Archaeological Trust.

Supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, a three year drying process took place to ensure that the rudder would not deteriorate any further.

Following the raising of the rudder, historians were able to study historical records and analyse the timbers to confirm the ship as being The Fame.

Bournemouth University marine archaeologist Dave Parham said: "Bournemouth University was involved in this project in its very earliest days and has brought it through the investigation of the site – its significance and risks - the rescue excavation and research, and now the display.

"The showcasing of this rudder is a chance to give this project to the public so that they can engage with it too.”

Cllr Mohan Iyengar, cabinet member for culture at Borough of Poole, said “I hope people will agree that we’ve had some truly great exhibits in Poole Museum over the past year.

"The rudder of the Swash Channel Wreck is another example – a beautiful piece and a part of Poole’s marine heritage which will be open for viewing.

"We thank Bournemouth University, the York Archaeological Trust, Historic England, and the Heritage Lottery Fund for its preservation and I encourage everyone to call into the museum to see it displayed. ”