Concern at "Captain Bligh" sale

The compass was used by Bligh, a resident of SE1, to navigate 3,600 miles of ocean in 1789. Also on sale is the coconut shell used as a plate and a beaker.

The sale has caused alarm at the National Maritime Museum where there are fears that prices will prevent these relics being purchased for the nation and public display.

Captain Bligh of Mutiny on the Bounty fame lived in Lambeth Road where his house is marked by a blue plaque. He is buried in the St Mary Lambeth churchyard which is now maintained by the Museum of Garden History.