8 June 2011Last updated at 15:52

In pictures: Cromer Pier celebrates 110th birthday

Cromer Pier and the Hotel de Paris shortly after the pier opened (Photo: Randall/Salter Magic Lantern Collection)

Cromer Pier, a popular tourist attraction on the north Norfolk coast, celebrated its 110th birthday on Wednesday. The seaside town has boasted a pier of some description since 1391, with the current metal structure opening on 8 June 1901.

The bandstand on Cromer Pier shortly after it opened in 1901 (Photo: Randall/Salter Magic Lantern Collection)

When it opened, the end of the 140m (450ft) pier was furnished with a bandstand but it was soon covered over to form a theatre. The Pavilion Theatre has existed in various forms to this day.

Cromer Pier in 1901 (Photo: Randall/Salter Magic Lantern Collection)

Entertainment has always played a large role on the pier and today it claims to house the country's last 'end of the pier' show. When it opened in 1901 Gertrude Snow amused the crowds, although what her act was is unknown today.

Cromer Pier during World War II (Photo: Poppyland Collection)

The pier was sectioned during World War II as a precaution against a German invasion. However, as the lifeboat was stationed on the end of the pier a temporary bridge had to be erected across the gap to allow the crew to reach the rescue vessel.

Cromer Pier after the floods of 1953 (Photo: Tony Webster Collection)

In 1953 adverse weather conditions hit the county and Cromer Pier and the Pavilion Theatre were damaged in the gales. The government granted compensation for the rebuilding and the new theatre was ready in time for the 1955 season.

Cromer Pier marking its 60th anniversary in 1961 (Photo: Tony Webster Collection)

The revamped Pavilion Theatre continued to prove a lucrative addition to the town and the pier marked its 60th anniversary in 1961. Cromer's status as a tourist destination throughout the ages has ensured the pier's continued popularity.

New Year's Day fireworks over Cromer Pier in 2010 (Photo: Poppyland Publishing)

The pier is still used regularly today with estimates that it attracts more than one million people per year. Events including the annual New Year's Day firework display and the Summer Seaside Special - which has just entered its 34th year - continue to pull in the crowds.

Norfolk

In pictures: Cromer Pier celebrates 110th birthday

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