A primeval insect preserved in amber has been donated to the Natural History Museum by a Rochester fossil hunter.

The rare spider-like harvestman was trapped in amber about 34 million years ago and could have seen the first mammals walk the planet.

It is only the second example of its species to be discovered.

The specimen, which carries the scientific name Dicranopalpus ramiger, was donated by Terence Collingwood, owner of the fossil and mineral collectors shop I Dig Dinos, High Street, Rochester.

Mr Collingwood said: “Being able to contribute to the Museum’s collection is a dream come true.

“I buy bulk lots of amber to sell, and I have to search through them carefully looking for unusual items that other people may have missed. Finding this was pure chance, but I realised straight away that it was something special."

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