Tuesday, 12 August 2008

Fire on Weston Pier

On the 28th of July, a major fire broke out on one of the major landmarks of my hometown, The Grand Pier. The blaze destroyed the Pavillion at the far end of the pier, where many of the attractions were based.

The pier had only recently been purchased by the Michael family, who had spent 0ver £500,000 revamping the attraction and adding an indoor go-kart track and climbing wall.

Mr Michael said
"I feel very sorry for the people of Weston, for them the pier was Weston. In these difficult economic times I sincerely hope that this event doesn't bring further hardship to those businesses and people who rely on our tourist trade.

"I would like to assure all these people that we will work tirelessly to restore this magnificent structure to its former glory."

Despite not being the biggest fan of my hometown, Weston's Grand Pier was one of the recognisable faces of the place. It has a long history, surviving fire before and has a place in the memories of many, if not all of the local people. I, myself, spent time on the pier and enjoyed the Dodgems and games when I was younger.

I personally hope that it is rebuilt and that its loss doesn't drag the town down into a financial pit that will have knock on effects for everyone that lives here.

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