The masts of a Thames shipwreck off the Kent, UK coast loaded with ammunition still remain in place 5 years after the UK Gov announced they would be removed in the interests of safety (January 15).

The SS Richard Montgomery wreck is situated only 1.5 miles off Sheerness beach in Kent and passed closely by ships daily.

The UK Government announced in 2021 the shipwreck's three masts would be removed to prevent the risk of them falling onto the cargo holds which contain unexploded ordnance, following an Expert Advisory Group's recommendation.

A statement published on the Gov.uk explains the delay: "...surveys identified several potential challenges to successful completion of the project using the preferred methodology. As a result of this new information, it has been necessary to review the project to determine alternative solutions for the safe and effective removal of the masts."

Footage shows container ship MSC Benin passing in the Thames shipping channel to the north of the wreck site, followed by vehicles carrier Malacca Highway in the Medway Approach channel arriving at Sheerness docks in poor visibility at high water this morning.