Fleetwood Pier destroyed in Blaze

Fleetwood’s historic pier has been destroyed by a fire which engulfed the structure early today (Tuesday).

Hundreds of local people made their way to the promenade as news of the tragedy broke.

The fire is believed to have started in the early hours of the morning with flames and billowing smoke soon taking hold.

Over 60 firefighters were called to the scene and opened water hydrants in nearby streets as they fought to bring the blaze under control. Firemen also waded into the sea to pump extra water to their hoses. Flames continued to lick around the mangled pier some 6 hours after the initial blaze was spotted.

The pier - opened in 1910 - has been reduced to a smouldering heap of tangled metal although the concrete base has survived.

In its heyday generations of locals and visitors enjoyed the various amenities - from slot machines, bingo, a pub and cinema.

Today’s fire is the second to destroy the fabric of the pier. A disastrous fire in 1952 caused thousands of pounds of damage - but it was re-built and once again became an icon of the town’s holiday scene.

In recent years the fortunes of the pier waned and the building became derelict. Plans by its owner to give it a new lease of life – incorporating luxury flats – had met with local opposition.

Local folk watching today’s fire expressed sadness at the latest turn in the pier’s history. “The pier was part of the town’s heritage and although it had been vandalised in recent months we all hoped something could be done to restore its unique place in the port” said one resident.

Investigations into the cause of today’s blaze are continuing.