The main salvage operation has begun in Sennen Cove, Cornwall on the wreck of the RMS Mulheim. The German vessel went aground in the early morning of the 22 March and its cargo of potential pollutants is of concern to environmental groups.

In order to remove the cargo from the vessel, which lies in a particularly inaccessible spot, the team have employed a conveyor belt system of wires, pulleys and a crane. This will enable the heavier items of cargo to be taken ashore two tonnes at a time.

During this operation, the Lands End to Sennen Cove footpath will be diverted. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency have warned the public, for their own safety, to adhere to this diversion. The first stage of the salvage operation, involving removal by hand of the small pollutants such as paint, fuel and lubricating oil, was completed last week.

See previous Yachting Monthly story here