Part of a busy East Sussex seafront was closed as high winds sent waves crashing across the road.

Traffic queues stretched back as police closed the road between Harold Place and Robertson Street, Hastings, for more than two hours yesterday.

Buses were diverted as shingle-laden waves crashed on to the A259 during rush-hour.

Firefighters made loose scaffolding safe in Eversfield Place.

People on Hastings pier were ordered to leave as strong waves and winds of more than 55mph pounded the Victorian structure.

Traffic queues caused long delays further along at Bexhill Road.