TODAY marks two years since Burnham-on-Sea's historic pier re-opened to the public, three days after a fire broke out. 

Eight fire crews from Burnham and surrounding stations fought the blaze at the back of the pier on the afternoon of Thursday, August 5, 2021.

A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “Fire appliances attended a developed fire on the pier, following multiple calls from members of the public.

“The fire involved a single-storey building used as an amusement arcade.”

Avon Fire and Rescue Service sent an additional fire engine from Weston and a turntable ladder. Western Power were also called to the scene.

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: The pier re-opened three days after the fire took hold. (Image: Jon Alsbury)The pier re-opened three days after the fire took hold. (Image: Jon Alsbury)

At around 4.40pm, the spokesperson said: “The fire was extinguished and crews confirmed severe damage by fire, smoke and water. 

“The cause is undetermined at this time, and investigations continue.”

After an investigation, a spokesperson said the cause was “undetermined, but not suspicious”.

Burnham Pier re-opened to the public on Sunday, August 8, with a section of the amusement arcade cordoned off due to fire damage in the roof. 

The pier is the shortest in Britain. It was built between 1911 and 1914.