yet, it was revealed yesterday.

For the decomposing marine mystery organism may still be needed by scientists probing its origins.

Yesterday, a spokesman for Surf Side Cottages, whose beach is playing host to the blob, said they were happy to assist scientists. But he added that the smell from the decaying organism could become a problem.

He said: "We would like to get rid of it as soon as possible -- we have guests and they are going to be using the beach.'' The spokesman added: "They haven't told us when they might be finished with it. As far as I know, the scientists are still looking at it.'' He said that getting rid of the half-ton lump of matter could also present difficulties -- but it was possible it could be floated back out to sea at high tide.

Government scientist Dr. Brian Luckhurst, one of the first scientists on the scene when the blob was discovered at the weekend, said: "The first order of business is to get these tissue samples analysed.

"Depending on the results, we will see whether we need to try and save larger portions of it.'' But he said the winter air temperatures and the lower sea temperatures at this time of year would slow down the decay of the organism.

Dr. Luckhurst added: "We can certainly buy a bit more time while we pursue the analysis of the tissue samples.'' Scientists are currently carrying out tests, including DNA analysis, to find out what the massive whitish-grey mass is.

Dr. Wolfgang Sterrer of the Bermuda Aquarium said after the blob was discovered that it could be part of a whale.

But he said it could be part of a completely unknown creature, so it was best to wait for full analysis of the remains.