A huge £6million superyacht has caught fire in Devon, with police urging people to stay away from the area while the blaze is tackled - you can see the fire here:
A major incident was declared in the seaside town of Torquay after the yacht burst into flames just before midday today (28 May).
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Footage captured huge plumes of thick black smoke billowing from the boat - at least five fire engines were dispatched to the fire.
Smoke could seen billowing across the blue skies above the heads of bemused sunbathers on nearby beaches.
As the blaze continued, the seafront was cordoned off and the beach evacuated, DevonLive reports.
Reporter from DevonLive Colleen Smith, who attended the scene, said: "Princess 85ft worth £6million. Witnesses say there were explosions. Ropes burnt through and it drifted into the pier. Firemen took trolleys and pumps along pontoons but water was not reaching.
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"Some people are trapped on the other end of the pier and can’t get back. Firemen are running along the pier. Still huge flames."
A spokesperson for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: "There is an 85ft motorboat on fire. Fire crews called at 11.57am.
''Five fire engines on the scene. Liaising with the harbourmaster.
“Please do keep away from the area.''
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Police have said there are no reported injuries so far, but reminded members of the public to stay away from the area until further notice.
A spokesperson from Devon and Cornwall Police said: "Police were called at 12.10pm today [Saturday 28 May] to Princess Pier in Torquay following reports of a fire on a yacht moored in the marina.
"The boat is believed to be well alight and had broken from the mooring. It has now been secured by the Fire service near the pier.
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"There have been no reported injuries at this time. Emergency services remain at the scene where the incident is ongoing.
"Due to levels of smoke and fumes we are asking residents in the area to keep their doors and windows shut at this time. Members of the public are also urged to avoid the area and beaches are being cleared by officers for public safety.
"A number of road closures have been put in place including: the promenade and waterfront areas; Torbay Road at the junction with Rathmore Road; Belgrave Road at the junction with Chestnut Avenue and Shedden Hill at the junction with Croft Road.”
Topics: UK News