Paddleboarder provokes controversy

Paddleboarder Shane Skinner has provoked controversy by taking advantage of calm weather and a low tide to pose touching one of the masts of the WW2 munitions ship SS Richard Montgomery, which still contains thousands of tons of explosives. A sign, clearly visible in the photo, says “DANGER. Unexploded ammunition. Do not approroach or board this wreck.” The wreck, which lies only a few yards from the Medway approach channel, used by massive gas tankers and container ships, is surrounded by yellow buoys indicating a prohibited area. An online poll at Kent Online shows that the majority of readers consider Mr Skinner to be irresponsible. Others wonder what the fuss is about…