THE FASTEST creature on earth has landed in Bournemouth.

While peregrine falcons have been spotted in the clock tower at Bournemouth and Poole College’s Lansdowne site, this proves to be a more permanent example of the magnificent bird.

Made of bronze and standing 3.5m high, it weighs in at more than a tonne and has been created by Geoffrey Dashwood, a world-renowned bird sculptor, as part of a selling exhibition at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum.

It has arrived in Bournemouth as part of cultural celebrations for 2012 and will perch in the garden of the Russell-Cotes throughout the summer, keeping a watchful eye over visitors.

The exhibition, Dashwood: Father and Son, sees the sculptural work of Geoffrey Dashwood showcased alongside the photographic pieces created by his son, Leo, which specialise in the human form.

Sue Hayward, heritage manager for Bournemouth council, said: “Geoffrey Dashwood is one of the foremost sculptors in the world, and we are absolutely delighted to have his work on display here, as part of this selling exhibition.”

Works from the exhibition will see prices range from £600-£1,850 for Leo Dashwood photography to £3,850-£250,000 for Geoffrey Dashwood sculptures.

For more information go to the website Russell-cotes.bournemouth.gov.uk.