A MYSTERY object has Fordingbridge Museum staff stumped.

The museum is calling on Forest Journal readers to come forward and help identify the leather object, which is in its store room.

Museum trustee Julian Hewitt said: “The mystery object is about 2.5 feet by 3 feet and is made of quite thick leather.

“It is covered in straps and what look like pockets that are held together by very robust looking rivets."

He added: “Our staff are all mystified by the item which is part of the collection of artefacts once owned by John Shering that forms the basis of the museum collection.

“John collected a wide range of historical items most of which have been easily identified but this one has got us all baffled. We would welcome any suggestions as to what it might be and would be thrilled if we were to get a positive identification.”

Anyone with information that can help to shed some light on this mystery object is asked to pop into the museum or call 01425 657 850.