Part Of Brighton's West Pier Collapses Into Sea During Storm Austen
Part of Brighton's historic West Pier has fallen into the sea as strong winds and rough conditions continue to affect the Sussex coast.
Footage captured by local resident Simon Haffenden shows a large wave striking the structure before a section collapses into the water.
He described hearing a loud crash as the metalwork gave way, adding that it was upsetting to witness further damage to one of the city's best-known landmarks.
The collapse comes as Storm Austen brings widespread disruption across the South East, with gusts of up to 70mph forecast.
First opened in 1866, the West Pier closed to visitors in 1975 before suffering extensive storm damage in 2002 and two devastating fires the following year.
Despite its deteriorating condition, the remaining structure has continued to be an iconic feature of Brighton's seafront.
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