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Torquay fire – Charred remains of £6M super yacht sink after huge ‘fireball’ tore through vessel in ‘major incident’
A £6MILLION super yacht has sunk after a huge fireball tore through it in a major incident today.
The 85ft vessel's charred remains have been pictured after it went up in flames on the harbour.
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Plumes of black smoke billowed over Torquay, Devon, as the flames ripped through the boat, which was carrying 8,000 litres.
Some locals were understood to be stuck on the pier as firefighters rush to extinguish the blaze.
The boat's ropes caught on fire causing it to break free from its moorings while ablaze.
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Police confirmed there have been no injuries reported following the drama at around midday.
Officials warned locals and holidaymakers to stay away from the seafront and the beaches have been evacuated.
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Those living nearby have also been asked to shut their doors and windows to avoid the fumes.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said it had five appliances at the scene of the fire, and the case has been handed over to the Environment Agency and the harbourmaster.
One stunned bystander said the blaze was "like a fireball" after it broke out today.
Another said: "There were explosions. Ropes burnt through and it drifted into pier.
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"Firemen took trolleys and pumps along pontoons but water not reaching.
"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."
The smoke stretched as far across South Devon and as far as Newton Abbot and Shaldon.
There are now road closures in place including along the waterfront and promenade causing traffic chaos for seaside-goers.
Devon and Cornwall Police said: "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.
"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.
"Further details will be provided in due course."
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A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We currently have fire appliances at Torquay marina fighting a fire on an 85ft private vessel. Please do keep away from the area.
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“This has been declared a major incident. The beach has been evacuated and residents are being urged to keep doors and windows shut.”
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