Grand Pier Blaze

A little over a fortnight ago I previewed the Weston-super-Mare Sand Sculpture Festival 2008 (CLICK). Early this morning a fire broke out on the Grand Pier, recently renovated by new owners. Avon Fire and Rescue Service has at least six fire engines and 30 firefighters tackling the blaze, but it has taken hold and is destroying the century-old pier. A plume of black smoke can be seen as far away as Wales. Not a good day to visit the Sand Sculpture Festival!