An 85ft superyacht has sunk after firefighters battled a massive marina blaze in Torquay. But concerns for the environment have been raised after Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said there was approximately 8,000 litres of fuel on the 85ft boat.
The large yacht - believed to be the Rendezvous, built by Princess Yachts in Plymouth - caught alight on Saturday (May 28) morning by Princess Pier. Police were called to the scene and Specials have tweeted out that while the fire was out, "[the boat] has now sunk below the surface of the water", Devon Live reports.
A spokesperson for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: “The boat has been sunk so it (the fire) is out now. It’s been handed over now to the Environment Agency and the harbourmaster.”
The Environment Agency said in a statement it believe there were "approx 9 tonnes of diesel on board". The agency went on to note: "Pollution response led by harbour master. Our officers are helping with advice and guidance on bathing water quality etc".
In a statement issued at 1.49pm, before the blaze was put out, the fire service said: “Crews again confirm 1 85 foot yacht well alight alongside Princess Pier which is also involved in fire, all persons are accounted for and the immediate surrounding area has been evacuated, the yacht contains approximately 8000 Litres of diesel fuel, crews are currently at work using 4 Breathing Apparatus wearers, 1 Compressed Air Foam Jet, 2 45mm Jets, 2 Light Portable Pumps, water relay is currently being carried out by an open water source as well as a street hydrant being used.”
Firefighters from several stations have attended the blaze, including crews from Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Teighnmouth, Crediton, Honiton and Taunton. Beaches and waterfront businesses are feared for at the start of the half-term holiday.
