Fire crews have dashed to Burnham-on-Sea pier in the Somerset town after shocked tourists saw flames. Photographs show thick grey smoke billowing from the structure, which extends 900ft into the bay.

       The fire, which broke out at around lunchtime, is believed to have involved a wood storage area and a bin.

       Devon Fire and Rescue and Avon Fire and Rescue remain at the scene and have closed coastal roads.

       Other pictures published by Somerset Live show tourists watching the fire roar from the landmark.

       Many people, including witnesses, have shared their woe online.

       "Hope everyone is ok," one comment reads.

       "Let's hope the owners can re-build," another states.

       "So sad to see these scenes," a third reads.

       The pier was built between 1911-1914 and was the first concrete structure of its kind in Europe.

       It is the smallest pier in the UK.

       Burnham-on-Sea, which was a small fishing village until the late 18th century, is now a popular tourist destination.

       There has been a huge rise in domestic holidays in the UK this year as the pandemic has put strict restrictions on foreign travel.