The world’s biggest container ship has arrived in the UK for the first time.

HMM Algeciras concluded its journey from China to Essex on Sunday – via South Korea, the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium.

The 1,312ft (400m) long and 200ft (61m) wide ship is delivering a variety of goods at DP World London Gateway in Thurrock.

Preparations began more than six months ago, with the Port of London Authority modelling its arrival on a simulator to ensure it could be carried out safely.

HMM Algeciras will depart on Monday, carrying UK exports on her return journey to China via Singapore.

Peter Livey, managing director for Britain at shipping company HMM, which owns the vessel, described its maiden voyage as a “major milestone”.

He said: “Ships of this size give us the capacity and flexibility to get our customers’ goods to the right place at the right time.”

DP World UK chief executive Ernst Schulze said the commitment of his staff has been “critical” to London Gateway remaining open throughout the coronavirus lockdown.