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Storm Reveals Centuries-Old Shipwreck on Norfolk Coast
25 Feb
Summary
- Hull timbers from the 16th or 17th Century found on Hemsby beach.
- The relic shows old shipbuilding techniques using wooden pegs.
- Wreckage will remain on the beach until the next high tide.
Hull timbers believed to be from the 16th or 17th Century have washed ashore on Hemsby beach in Norfolk following recent gale-force winds. The discovered wreckage, measuring approximately 20ft (7m) but thought to be part of a much larger vessel nearly 100ft (30m) long, offers a rare look at ancient construction methods. Experts note the use of wooden pegs for joining parts, with minimal metal fasteners.
Despite the significant find, officials are unable to identify the specific ship due to a scarcity of records. The treacherous nature of the Norfolk coast, with its shifting sandbanks, made sailing hazardous during that era. The remnant of the ancient vessel was moved from the immediate shoreline by the local lifeboat service and is expected to be taken out to sea by the next high tide.
