Propeller Photo: Jane Morgan Exhaust pipes Photo: JM Exhaust pipe Photo: JM Bib over the wreck Photo: JM Conning Tower Photo: JM Bow Photo: JM Exhaust system hatch Photo: JM Innes McCartney Photo: JM

THE Navy's first submarine has been revealed in all its glory after survey divers succeeded in cutting away lines and netting that had swathed the wreck. Divers from the Nautical Archaeological Society have been working with submarine historian and diver Innes McCartney to clear the wreck of the Holland V sub, which lies at 30-36m, six miles southeast of the Royal Sovereign Lighthouse, Eastbourne.

A protected wreck, it is believed to be the most intact example of the Holland series designed by John Philip Holland and regarded as the basis for all submarine design since its commissioning in 1903. The wreck is almost entirely intact and sits upright - it sank while under tow in 1912, possibly as a result of water flooding in through a torpedo hatch. McCartney is the wreck's current licensee, with a remit to survey and record the wreck and act as the government's representative in looking after the vessel. Working with the Nautical Archaeological Society (NAS), McCartney has been able to allow groups of divers to visit the wreck on the Spartacat dive boat, including a recent party from Crawley BSAC. 'Historically, the Holland V is incredibly important,' McCartney told DIVE. 'It was the first submarine accepted into service by the Royal Navy, and brought together a balance of technologies that make it the basis of all submarine design since. John Philip Holland is pretty much the Oswald Wright of submarines.'

McCartney first visited the wreck in 2000, when it was unprotected, and is now tasked with monitoring its protection for English Heritage. 'I've spent a good ten hours hacking away nets and the full glory of the 63ft [20m] long wreck can now be appreciated.'

To take part in survey work on the submarine, divers are encouraged to carry out two-day courses with the NAS, as there are plans for future 'public' dives on the Holland V. For more details email project manager Mark Beattie-Edwards on mark@nassportsmouth.org.uk or phone 023 9281 8419.