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Clacton Pier helter-skelter blown down as storm hits Essex Clacton Pier helter-skelter blown down as storm hits Essex
(35 minutes later)
The helter-skelter at Clacton Pier has blown down as Essex is hit by strong winds. The helter-skelter at Clacton Pier has blown down after Essex was hit by strong winds.
Tendring District Council said it collapsed early in the morning, but the structure had not fallen into the sea.Tendring District Council said it collapsed early in the morning, but the structure had not fallen into the sea.
Eyewitness Chris Woodley said the slide appeared to have fallen on to the amusement arcade and the rollercoaster looked like it was "breaking up".Eyewitness Chris Woodley said the slide appeared to have fallen on to the amusement arcade and the rollercoaster looked like it was "breaking up".
The pier's owner is at the scene assessing the damage, but did not wish to comment.The pier's owner is at the scene assessing the damage, but did not wish to comment.
The storm has also affected commuters in Essex, with most rail services throughout the county being suspended. Another eyewitness said: "It was the tallest thing on the pier, the kids loved it."
Trees have also fallen on roads and council services, including country parks have been closed. A council spokesman spoke of disappointment at the ride collapsing, saying: "Any of the main rides on the pier are crucial to Clacton."
He added that so many trees had also fallen down in the district, it was "running out of chainsaws".
Essex Police said a number of trees had fallen on to roads across the county, but no major incidents had occurred.
The storm has affected commuters in Essex, with most rail services throughout the county being suspended.
A lorry has also blown over on the M11 near Harlow, causing congestion.
County council services including country parks have been closed and some courts including Basildon Crown Court are not sitting until at least 14:00 GMT.
Essex Police has set up two emergency lines for all weather calls, including emergencies - 0800 092 0410 and 0207 158 0124.Essex Police has set up two emergency lines for all weather calls, including emergencies - 0800 092 0410 and 0207 158 0124.