AN ancient stone head, missing for more than 160 years, has been returned to its original home at St Dogmaels Abbey.

The 14th century carved head of a woman was one of the exhibits shown in Cardigan in 1859 in a temporary historical exhibition by the Cambrian Archaeological Association.

But after that date all record of it was lost - until last week.

The carving was returned by members of the Lewis Bowen family, of Clynfyw, where it was being used as a garden ornament.

St Dogmaels heritage officer Glen Johnson said: “We are absolutely delighted to have it back.

“We think the 1859 exhibition was organised by the then vicar of St Dogmaels Rev Henry James Vincent.”