A devastating fire has ripped through the iconic Southport Pier, casting a huge plume of smoke over the Merseyside coastline and drawing a massive emergency response.
Emergency services were scrambled to the scene late last night after reports of a significant blaze at the historic structure, one of the oldest iron piers in the country. Dramatic footage and images from the scene showed flames tearing through the wooden decking and pavilion buildings, lighting up the night sky.
Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service confirmed they deployed multiple fire engines and specialist appliances to tackle the inferno. Crews worked through the night, fighting the fire from both the beach and the pier itself in a desperate attempt to bring it under control and prevent further damage to the cherished landmark.
The full extent of the damage is not yet known, but early reports suggest a substantial section of the pier has been affected. The cause of the fire is currently unknown and will be the subject of a thorough investigation once the blaze is fully extinguished.
Local authorities have urged the public to avoid the area to allow emergency services to work unimpeded. The pier, a major tourist attraction in the North West, is now expected to be closed for a considerable period, dealing a significant blow to the town's economy.
Sefton Council is expected to issue a statement later today regarding the incident and the future of the Grade II listed structure, which first opened in 1860.
