Firefighters are tackling a huge blaze on a superyacht in Torquay Marina in Devon.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service says it has five fire appliances at the scene of the blaze which has ripped through the 85ft (25m) vessel, reportedly worth about £6m

Eyewitnesses described a loud band followed by large plumes of smoke and flames which were visible from some distance.

A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesman said: “Police were called at 12.10pm today to Princess Pier in Torquay following reports of a fire on a yacht moored in the marina.

“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.”

People were evacuated from the immediate area by firefighters.

“Emergency services remain at the scene where the incident is ongoing,” police added.

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“There have been no reported injuries at this time.

“Members of the public are also urged to avoid the area and beaches are being cleared by officers for public safety.”

The fire service said the yacht contains about 8,000 litres of diesel fuel and nearby residents have been advised to keep doors and windows shut.

The coastguard said it was assisting police with a full closure of Torquay sea front.

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