A major incident has been declared in the Westcountry after a superyacht caught fire in a port. Emergency services rushed to the scene with black smoke billowing from the burning vessel.
The incident, which happened just before midday in Torquay, happened when a £6million superyacht caught fire. Explosions were heard by people nearby.
The ropes burned and the ship drifted into the pier. All waterfront businesses have been closed.
READ MORE: M5 traffic: Almost two hours late in Somerset amid holiday traffic
Torquay seafront has now been closed following the incident. Everyone is urged to avoid the area, Devon Live reports.
A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: ‘We currently have fire apparatus at Torquay Marina fighting a fire on an 85ft private vessel. Please stay away from the area.
“It has been declared a major incident. The beach has been evacuated and residents are asked to keep doors and windows closed.
Devon Live reporter Colleen Smith, who was at the scene. Colleen said: “Princess 85ft worth £6million. Witnesses say there were explosions. Ropes burned and drifted into the pier. Firefighters took out trolleys and pumps along the pontoons but the water did not reach.
“Some people are stuck at the other end of the pier and cannot get back. Firefighters are running along the pier. There are still huge flames.”
Smoke was seen across South Devon and as far as Newton Abbot and Shaldon. An eyewitness described the fire “like a ball of fire. It is currently unknown if anyone was injured in the fire.
A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said; “Police were called at 12:10 today. [Saturday 28 May] at Princess Pier in Torquay following reports of a fire on a yacht moored in the marina. It is believed that the boat is well lit and has detached from the mooring. It has now been secured by firefighters near the pier.
“No injuries have been reported at this time. Emergency services remain at the scene of the incident.
“Due to the smoke and fume levels, we are asking area residents to keep their doors and windows closed at this time. Members of the public are also asked to avoid the area and beaches are cleaned by public safety officers.
You can follow updates on Devon Live’s live blog here.
Read more related articles Read more related articles
More about this article: Read More
Source: www.somersetlive.co.uk
This notice was published: 2022-05-28 14:17:38
