Fire damaged a pier this morning (Sunday 30 August) prompting a full evacuation and the closure of the seafront road.
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said tha it was called to a fire at Eastbourne Pier at 10.24am.
The fire service said: “Currently, six crews and an aerial ladder platform are at the scene.
“A full evacuation of the pier has been undertaken and is now complete.
“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus are using firefighting foam to tackle the fire.
“Crews are working hard to prevent the escalation of the fire to other areas of the pier.
“Both the gas and electrics have been isolated by crews. Police have also been requested.
“We would urge the public to please avoid the area to allow our firefighters to work.
“Any properties near by should keep doors and windows closed.”
In an update at 11.19am, the fire service said: “Crews are making good progress.
“The fire at Eastbourne Pier is now extinguished and firefighters are now dealing with hotspots and cutting away.
“Six crews and aerial ladder platform, alongside its support pump, remain at the scene.
“The road around the pier has been closed to allow our crews to work safely.
“The public are urged to avoid the area to assist our crews.”
In another update, the fire service said: “As of 12.03pm, a stop message has been received and the cause of the fire confirmed as accidental.
“Four appliances remain at the scene but this will be scaled back shortly. No casualties reported.”
In a final update, the fire service said: “All crews have now left the scene, with the last crew leaving the incident at 12.34pm, with a reinspection taking place at 5pm today.”
