Podcast: Masts of SS Richard Montgomery bomb ship off Sheppey to be removed in September and preserved at Chatham's Historic Dockyard
KentOnline
Tuesday, 14 July 2026 - 19 minutes
It's been confirmed today that work to remove the masts of a famous bomb ship that sank off Sheppey will get underway in September.
The SS Richard Montgomery ran aground during the second world war and has 1,400 tonnes of explosives on board.
The vessels masts can be see protruding from the water and will be taken to Chatham's historic dockyard to be preserved.
Also in today's podcast, Andy Burnham says police must be given the 'space they need' to investigate the death of former Maidstone MP Ann Widdecombe.
The incoming Prime Minister, who'll be confirmed as Labour leader on Friday, says the 78 year-old died in an 'appalling act of violence.'
Meantime, a digital book of condolence has opened in Maidstone so Miss Widdecombe's former constituents can leave tributes.
A Kent nightclub at the centre of a meningitis outbreak in Kent has been praised for the work it's done to raise aware of symptoms.
Two young people died earlier this year with cases linked to Club Chemistry in Canterbury.
Bosses there also called for a meningitis B vaccine to be rolled out - and year 13 pupils starting university this autumn can now get it.
A leading Kent charity's told the podcast this summer has been incredibly dangerous for people who're sleeping rough.
Temperatures in the county are expected to hit the high 20s again today. Hear from Canterbury-based Porchlight.
And in sport, Gillingham are back in action tonight for their first pre-season friendly.
They're travelling to take on Dover Athletic at The Crabble.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
