Ferry journeys from Shotley to Harwich and Felixstowe are continuing as normal while investigators carry out an inspection following a fire on the historic pier, which is part of the boat's landing stage..

The blaze on the Ha'penny pier at Harwich could have been worse but for the quick actions of local youngsters, according to neighbours.

A fire broke out at around 11.25pm on Sunday night and the group called emergency services and attempted to put out the fire with buckets of water while waiting for a fire engine to arrive to deal with the incident and the crew stood down shortly after midnight.

It is not yet known how the fire started, and has been recorded by Essex Fire Service as accidental or deliberate by fire bosses.

Fiona Brunning, communication manager for Harwich Haven Authority, said: "We have commenced an investigation to ascertain the cause of the fire and is reviewing CCTV footage from cameras located across the pier.

"No structural damage to the pier has been caused by the fire.

"We give our thanks to both members of the public and Essex Fire and Rescue for their quick attendance at the fire."

Tony O'Neill, from the Pharos Trust, which owns the LV18 lightship near the pier, told Harwich news sources: "The quick actions of some young locals who called the fire brigade possibly saved a historic pier in Harwich.The wind had fanned the flames from a smouldering beam."