Eastbourne Pier evacuated as crews tackle fire

Eastbourne Pier has been evacuated as firefighters tackle a blaze that has broken out at the landmark.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS) said it was called to the pier at about 10:30 BST on Sunday and six crews, including an aerial ladder platform, were at the scene.

Both the gas and electrics had been isolated by crews, the service added.

At about 11:20, ESFRS said the fire had been extinguished and crews were dealing with hot spots.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were using firefighting foam to tackle the fire.

People have been urged to avoid the area to allow firefighters to work.

Transport analytics company Inrix says Grand Parade is partially blocked in both directions and there is slow-moving traffic because of the emergency service response to the fire.

The pier has been the victim of a fire in the past, with about one third of the Grade II* listed structure being destroyed in a blaze on 30 July 2014.

It has been a major attraction in the seaside town since its official opening in 1870.

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