UPDATE: Gas explosion on burning yacht

A burning boat has exploded and sunk after flames spread to gas canisters in the hold SUS-160321-143025001

The boat is thought to have suddenly caught fire at around 12.30pm this afternoon (March 21).

A explosion was reported at around 2pm.

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.

Two people are being taken to shore for medical treatment from paramedics.

The burning ship’s crew were rescued by a nearby fishing boat after the fire took hold.

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

More details to follow.

Picture by Tony Smith.

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