FIRE crews remain at the scene of a “devastating” seafront hotel fire.

Flames ripped through the Claremont Hotel in Eastbourne yesterday, leaving the historic building gutted.

The cause of the blaze is under investigation by firefighters.

Today two engines remain at the scene as efforts continue to isolate the gas supply.

There are also fears for the stability of the grade-II listed building, which means fire crews are unable to work in the immediate area around the hotel.

The service said: “Alternative plans have been put in place. This work will take some time and people are being asked to avoid the area."

>> SEE LIVE UPDATES HERE

Meanwhile we are allowing the gas to burn off in a controlled manner which is being closely monitored.

“Cordons remain in place to ensure public safety and are being managed by Sussex Police.”

Everyone staying at the hotel, which has 150 guest rooms, had to leave the building yesterday. 

The ambulance service said six patients were treated for minor injuries and one was hospitalised with breathing difficulties.

Flames were spotted at about 8.50am, and at its height 12 fire engines were sent to the scene, pumping water from the sea in a bid to control the inferno.

The fire service remained at the scene overnight, and say crews will continue to be there today.

Residents have been allowed to move back in to their homes, and some hotels have reopened, but it is understood that neighbouring hotels such as the Burlington will remain closed into next week.

The Argus:

The Pier Hotel said: “We got the all clear last night. The road around us is still shut off, but house residents and guests are allowed in and out.”

The Burlington, run by Bay Hotels in the same building, remains closed, and the company said: “The hotel is going to be shut for the rest of the week, and into next week as well.”

Eastbourne Borough Council set up a rest centre at the Town Hall, where 40 people were looked after.

Shelter was also provided to pets.

The authority said: “Forty people have been looked after at our Rest Centre that was set up in Eastbourne Town Hall after the fire at the Claremont Hotel.

“Most of those were residents of Elms Avenue, who were evacuated from their homes as a safety precaution and were able to return home.

“Blankets, wash kits, refreshments, hot food and pet food were provided. Beds were also brought in should anyone have needed to stay overnight.

The Argus:

“Twenty members of our team, including Neighbourhood First, Customer First, Tourism and Housing Needs, have been involved in this operation and worked hard to help those affected by the fire. We would like to thank them for their efforts.

“The seafront road near the Claremont Hotel will remain closed for the time being while structural engineers investigate the site.”