HE'S been referred to as Mr Swanage on innumerable occasions.

Now one of the town's most recognisable faces has been immortalised in bronze by a talented young Swanage artist.

As a columnist in the Swanage and Wareham Advertiser for more than 50 years, George Willey has become something of an institution.

So when the Quarr Gallery, on High Street, decided to celebrate community figures who have made a major contribution to the town, George was first on their list.

The impressive bronze bust is the work of Swanage-based artist Freya Boyesen.

"George is a local treasure," said Keith Roker, director at Quarr Gallery.

"He has an unrivalled reputation that we think requires both recognition and memorialisation."

George's Advertiser column, Tilly Whim, is thought to be the longest running column written by a single individual currently still in print.

However, he admits he was surprised to hear he was to be recognised with the sculpture.

"I was utterly astonished they would consider me worthy of immortality," he laughed.

"It seems they needed someone well-known in the area and that dubious honour fell to me!

"They have been very kind to me and it is a remarkable piece of work by a very talented artist."

The bronze bust will be on display in the Quarr Gallery for the next few weeks and is eventually likely to take up permanent residence in pride of place at the Advertiser office on Commercial Road, Swanage.

The Quarr Gallery opens 11am to 6pm seven days a week.