Cannon found during harbour dredging

The relic was recovered during a seabed clearance to prepare for the new Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers.

Experts believe, although cannons can indicate the presence of unknown shipwrecks, it was an ‘isolated discovery’.

It is being examined at the Mary Rose Museum in the Historic Dockyard before tests are carried out to determine its age.

Several anchors, modern glass and a range of ceramics were also found during the work, with further finds expected.