UPDATE: Burning yacht sinks after gas explosion

A burning yacht has sunk near Eastbourne after a gas explosion this afternoon (March 21).
By The Newsroom
Published 22nd Mar 2016, 09:05 BST
Updated 22nd Mar 2016, 09:18 BST

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Moments before the explosion. Picture by Tony Smith. SUS-160321-143047001Moments before the explosion. Picture by Tony Smith. SUS-160321-143047001
Moments before the explosion. Picture by Tony Smith. SUS-160321-143047001

Two people have been treated for minor smoke inhalation following the fire but did not require any further medical treatment.

They were rescued from the burning yacht by a passing fishing boat shortly after the fire took hold.

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It is thought to have suddenly caught fire at around 12.30pm.

A explosion was reported at around 2pm after flames spread to gas canisters in the ship’s hold.

Witness Tracey Monck said, “Just looked out and a big ball of flames went up and the lifeboat moved back.”

Nearby vessels are advised to avoid the area while lifeboat operations continue.

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Eastbourne Lifeboat attended the scene shortly afterwards to take the injured crew to shore.

Picture by Tony Smith.

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