059/06
26 April 2006
Culture Minister David Lammy Acts To Protect Wreck Site Of Bartholomew Ledges Wreck Site
Culture Minister David Lammy has today announced measures to ensure the continued protection of the important Bartholomew Ledges wreck site, in St Mary’s Sound off the Isles of Scilly. The wreck is a late 16th Century armed ship that carried medieval bronze bell fragments and also lead ingots, of which there are only four remaining examples in existence. It is thought possible that the vessel was an Armada ship the San Bartolome lost in 1597, but there is no definite archaeological evidence to confirm this.
The Bartholomew Ledges wreck site was discovered in 1976 and was originally designated in 1980, but recent archaeological reports have shown that the position of the wreck on the seabed has altered, probably due to natural disturbance. The site is therefore being re-designated to maintain its protection.
David Lammy said:
“I am pleased that this Order will help to ensure the continued protection of this important archaeological site. It is vital that we provide the opportunity for current and future generations to have access to these significant examples of maritime heritage.”
Notes to Editors
1. The Bartholomew Ledges wreck site was designated in 1980. Prior to this date, much material was salvaged. However, it is believed that there may still be important archaeological evidence buried on site. Recent archaeological reports have shown that the position of the wreck has changed on the seabed and/or the wreck material falls across a wider area than previously thought. Therefore, the Advisory Committee on Historic Wreck Sites suggests that that the co-ordinates and size of the restricted area should be changed to reflect this new information.
2. The Secretary of State has power under the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973 to designate wreck sites which she is satisfied ought to be protected from unauthorised interference on account of their archaeological, historical or artistic importance. Before making a designation order, the Secretary of State is required to consult with appropriate persons (unless she is satisfied that the order should be made as a matter of immediate urgency). Once designated, it is a criminal offence for a person to interfere with the site except under the authority of a licence.
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