Weston pier owners to rebuild after fire destroys their work

The owners of the grade II listed pier in Weston-super-Mare that was destroyed by fire yesterday have said they plan to rebuild.

Kerry and Michelle Michael had only just completed a major £1m renovation on the 104-year-old Grand Pier in the Somerset seaside town, when the fire broke out yesterday morning.

Thirty firefighters tackled the blaze, which could be seen as far away as Bristol and Cardiff, but within an hour-and-a-half the main pier building was destroyed.

The brother and sister owners had only purchased the attraction this year and completed their major renovation in April.

Kerry Michael told a press conference: “When we purchased the Grand Pier in February this year we regarded ourselves as custodians rather than owners, just looking after it for future generations to enjoy.

“I feel very sorry for the people of Weston. The pier was Weston, Weston was the pier.

“In these difficult economic times I sincerely hope this event doesn't bring further hardship to those businesses and people who rely on our tourist trade.

“Weston is a tourist town and I am sure the redevelopment of the seafront and the surrounding area will continue in earnest.”

An investigation into the cause of the fire is expected to start today.