The Department for Transport has released the latest information on a Second World War shipwreck full of explosives off the Southend coast.

The SS Richard Montgomery, a Second World War shipwreck five miles off the Southend Coast, sank in 1944 with 1,400 tonnes of explosives onboard.

Major concerns have been raised that if the masts fell and hit the wreck, it could cause a "deadly explosion".

In December 2023, the Department for Transport revealed they will be removing the masts "as soon as possible", following a recent inspection that found severe "degradation".

The masts are the only visible part of the ship and have become an attraction, featuring in tourist tours off the Southend coast.

However, in April 2024, this work was delayed after surveyors discovered it was surrounded by 18 "metallic objects".

The Department for Transport has released the latest update on the situation and stated they continue to "monitor the site 24-hours a day."

A spokesman said: “Our priority will always be to ensure the safety of the public and reduce any risk posed by the SS Richard Montgomery.

“We commissioned experts to carry out vital surveying work and we continue to monitor the site 24 hours a day and undertake detailed annual surveys to assess the wreck’s condition.”

No indications suggest that the current condition of the structure of the SS Richard Montgomery, which is expected given the vessel's age and location, has increased the risk associated with the wreck.

The Department for Transport also noted that work continues on methods of cutting back the wreck's three masts to further reduce associated risks.

However, public safety "will remain central" to any work and at no time will they undertake any "unnecessary risks that could endanger those who live or work nearby."

Further detailed survey work is currently underway and a plan will subsequently be developed to determine the "best possible solution."