Fire crews tackle blaze at seafront leisure centre

A seafront leisure centre was evacuated after a fire broke out in the basement.

Crews from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service were called to King Alfred Leisure Centre on Kingsway, Hove, at 10:54 GMT on Friday.

Ten fire engines were at the scene, including crews from West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, who helped put out the blaze.

No one was reported to be injured, but the road was closed and motorists were advised to avoid the area.

Police and ambulance were also in attendance.

Opened in 1939, King Alfred Leisure Centre is due to be demolished and replaced in a £65m redevelopment project, which was first announced by Brighton & Hove City Council in 2024.

Expected to include a larger fitness suite, leisure water area and a family entertainment zone, the plan aims to see the new facility open by 2028.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.