����ý

The wreck of a German submarine that sank during World War One has been found in the North Sea and officials believe 23 bodies may be inside it.

The type UB-II submarine is said to be in good condition, lying at a depth of 30m (100ft) off the Belgian coast.

"The submarine is in such good condition that we reckon all the bodies are still on board," said West Flanders Governor Carl Decaluwé.

The vessel is thought to have been sunk by a mine.

Mr Decaluwé told reporters on Tuesday that the location of the wreck was being kept under wraps to prevent people going near it and to stop the submarine being looted or damaged.

One unconfirmed report in Flemish media said it was near the port of Ostende.

As many as 23 bodies could be on board the sub, which is lying on its starboard side on the seabed. The German embassy has been informed.

"This sort of submarine would have had a standard crew of 22 and one commander," said Mr Decaluwé.

Although in relatively good condition, the submarine nevertheless sustained damage to its upper side. The bow sustained the most damage but the hatches were still shut.

The conning tower is described as intact and the periscopes are still visible. Two torpedo tubes were found lying apart from the wreck.

Scientists believe the mine may have been dragged up towards the surface as the submarine became caught up in a cable.

Eleven German submarines from the World War One period have been found in Belgian waters but this vessel is reported to be the best preserved of all.

UB-II submarines were built in 1915 and 1916 and were able to dive to a depth of around 50m.