A 16,000-tonne Russian cargo ship has run aground off a beach in Cornwall.

The massive vessel, believed to be the Kuzma Minin, grounded off Gyllyngvase Beach in Falmouth at about 5.40am.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) said the 590ft (180m) ship had dragged its anchor and has a list of about five degrees.

(Nigel Kitto/PA)

There is no cargo on the vessel, which has 18 Russian crew on board. Tugs will be attached to the ship to help re-float it when the tide rises.

The Met Office had issued a yellow warning of severe weather for the areas with 65mph winds forecast.

(Nigel Kitto/PA)

An HM Coastguard spokeswoman said in a statement: “HM Coastguard is currently co-cordinating assistance to a 180-metre bulk carrier which dragged her anchor and grounded on the western side of the port entrance between Swanpool and Gyllyngvase beaches at around 5.40am.

“The vessel has 18 Russian crew on board. There is no cargo on board. She currently has a list of 5 degrees but there is no report of any pollution.

“Tugs are on their way to the vessel and a lifeboat is standing by at the scene. The Falmouth Coastguard Rescue Team have cordoned off an area around the ship.

“Tugs will be attached to the vessel and as the tide rises, the plan is to re-float the vessel.”