FINDS from the medieval ship recently discovered off the coast of Poole will go on display at the town’s museum when it reopens in 2024.

Maritime archaeologists from Bournemouth University (BU) uncovered the ship, dating back to the 13th century, in Poole Bay on the edge of the Swash Channel. It was first found by a local charter boat skipper, Trevor Small.

A new display will showcase finds from the 15-metre medieval vessel in Shipwreck! – one of Poole Museum’s three new maritime galleries. The display will reveal the ongoing story of the excavation.

Though constructed from Irish timbers, the Mortar Wreck is thought to be local to Poole. Exciting finds include copper cooking vessels and stone mortars, as well as a cargo of ready-produced carved gravestones.

Cllr Beverley Dunlop, council member for tourism, culture and vibrant places, said: “It is incredibly exciting that shipwrecks like this are still being discovered along our coastline. They are such an integral part of Poole’s rich maritime heritage.”

BU maritime archaeology researcher Tom Cousins added: “The medieval wreck provides us with unparalleled potential for telling us about the past lives and shipping in the 13th century at an important time in Poole's history.”

Poole Museum will close at the end of October with building work taking place next year and reopening planned for 2024.