More than 40 per cent of Britain's historic shipwrecks are in danger of being lost forever through neglect and vandalism, an extensive survey has found.

English Heritage has identified 45 wrecks on a new list of important cultural sites that are "at risk", and in urgent need of protection and regeneration.

Many have been damaged by unauthorised divers during clumsy explorations and fishermen as they dredge the seabeds, while others have been allowed to decay.