The missing cargo ship which reportedly sailed through the English Channel after it had been boarded by pirates, will only have enough fuel to last a few more days at sea, a maritime expert said today.

A secret cargo and not just timber may be on board a missing ship whose last known radio contact was with British Coastguards, it was suggested today.

An international maritime search was underway tonight for a missing cargo ship amid fears it was under the control of pirates as it passed through the English Channel.

Rescuers searching for a light aircraft that disappeared over the Irish Sea yesterday afternoon have recovered a body off the Welsh coast.