Campaign Launched to Save Rutland Sea Dragon Fossil

Plans to exhibit a significant Ichthyosaur fossil, known as the Rutland sea dragon, have been halted due to escalating costs. The ancient marine reptile, discovered in 2021 beneath Rutland Water, is approximately 180 million years old. Rutland County Council had initially planned to display the fossil at the Rutland County Museum in Oakham as part of a £6 million project.

However, the council recently announced that it could no longer proceed with the display component of the project. This decision stems from increased liabilities and conservation expenses associated with housing the valuable fossil. Anglian Water expressed disappointment, noting that significant progress had been made toward an agreement to transfer the fossil to the council at no cost.

In response, a campaign has been initiated by the Friends of Rutland County Museum and Oakham Castle. They have launched a petition to gather support for bringing the Rutland sea dragon back to the county for public display, aiming to overcome the financial obstacles that have sidelined the exhibit.