'Serious' fire rips through Eastbourne's Claremont hotel

A "serious" fire has ripped through the Claremont hotel in Eastbourne, Sussex, with all occupants evacuated earlier this morning.

Fire crews were called to the Victorian building shortly before 9am to reports of blaze in the basement. Recent pictures show the fire has spread through all floors of the building to the roof.

By 11.30am 12 crews were at the scene with sea water being use in a bid to extinguish the flames.

The 72-bedroom hotel was evacuated and everyone has been accounted for. Six patients have been treated for minor injuries with one taken to Eastbourne Hospital with breathing difficulties.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said the fire is now "under control" and it is scaling back the operation.

Incident commander and assistant chief fire officer, Mark Andrews, said: “This is a very serious incident and the fire took hold very quickly. There is considerable smoke in the area and we are advising people to keep doors and windows closed.

"The swift actions of the hotel staff meant everyone got out of the hotel safely, and we thank them for their efforts.”

The hotel stretches across a row of Grade II-listed terrace houses, which are also occupied by the Burlington hotel.

Guests staying at the hotel have been taken to the town's Assembly Hall and Court Room, where Eastbourne Borough Council is organising support.

The hotel is believed to be owned by Jeanne Wilson, under the Daish's Holidays group. According to the group's website Wilson acquired the hotel in 2013. The group comprises 10 hotels and 24 luxury coaches.

The cause of the fire will be investigated.

*Picture: East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service *