A RARE and unidentified wooden shipwreck exposed on the beach at Madbrain Sands, Minehead, has been mentioned in a new guide published by Historic England.

The remains of the wooden sailing vessel, which became more exposed following the winter storms of 2014/15, is designated a Scheduled Monument.

Scheduling is the selection of nationally important archaeological sites, which are closely managed, and the wreck is believed to be the New England-built and owned Bristol Packet, built in 1801 and wrecked off Minehead in 1808.

It was recommended for scheduling because of its rarity, survival, similarity with other particular wrecks, the understanding it gives of American-built vessels and evidence of trade with the US at a key period.

It is among 21 unusual or surprising places, and 1000 altogether, listed this year by Historic England on behalf of the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport.

Feature in the Free Press