Leading Dorset and Somerset law firm Humphries Kirk solicitors has announced its sponsorship of the new Etches Collection at the visitor centre in Kimmeridge.

Humphries Kirk donated funds towards a specially produced guide detailing the fossil display. The collection by Dorset resident Steve Etches is the result of more than 30 years’ of discovery and research to find and gather specimens, and bring to life the stories of the creatures that existed in the Kimmeridgian age.

Steve donated his collection to The Kimmeridge Trust, which Humphries Kirk has been instrumental in setting up in terms all legal aspects regarding the organisation.

Visitors to the centre will be taken on an immersive journey through the life underwater 150 million years ago.

Darrell Stuart-Smith, partner at Humphries Kirk, commented: “The Etches Collection brings focus of the world upon Dorset and its hidden treasures. It is an extraordinary achievement and illustrates his commitment to unearth and explain the past. It is simply a fascinating story of one man’s dedication to his hobby, passion and life.”

Carla Crook, daughter of Steve Etches and the museum registrar, said: “We were delighted to receive the generous sponsorship from Humphries Kirk solicitors. They have been excellent supporters of the Etches Collection and we have been able to create a fantastic brochure detailing more about this part of history which is on display for the public.”

The Jurassic Coast, England’s only natural World Heritage Site, is internationally renowned for the abundance of fossils on its shores. Along this famous coastline, lies the Dorset village of Kimmeridge which has given its name to the clay formation that contains a unique range of fossils from the late Jurassic period.

For further information please visit www.theetchescollection.org/home