Lighthouse disappears into water

The lighthouse was originally sited at Port Erin in the 1860s

Strong gale force winds have blown down a lighthouse on the Isle of Man.

The lighthouse on Alfred Pier at Port St Mary was destroyed during the early hours of Monday, harbour operations manager Ken Horsley said.

The cast iron structure stood about 15ft (4.5m) high and was originally the lighthouse for the Port Erin breakwaters in the 1860s.

Divers have found the structure in pieces at the bottom the sea, which means it is unlikely to be rebuilt.

A temporary navigation light has been installed at the end of the pier.

The lighthouse was blown off the pier early on Monday morning

Mr Horsley added that the lighthouse had been refurbished about five years ago, was in good condition and irreplaceable.

Speaking about the weather conditions at the time, he said: "There had been a south west gale running for 24 hours and the area can be difficult depending on the weather."

Port St Mary harbour is used by fishing vessels, pleasure craft, occasional commercial coasters and passenger vessels.

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