A huge fire has destroyed the Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare.

Reported at around 7am this morning, the fire engulfed the recently renovated and refurbished pier. There are not believed to be any casualties.

A quarter mile long, the pier is a popular attraction for locals and tourists.

Reports suggest that smoke and flames from the blaze were riding hundreds of metres into the sky and could be seen from as far away as Cardiff. Police placed a cordon around the pier and beach and advised people to avoid the area.

More information on the fire on the BBC news website

Pictures of the fire are also on the BBC website

Amazingly, despite the fire that gutted the Grand Pier, it was reopened to the public within a week and now has plenty of entertainment on offer in temporary facilities.

Very well done to the many, many people who worked tirelessly to clear up the site, make it safe and bring The Great Pier back to life again!