Norfolk Fire Service describes tackling Broads boat fire

Two of the vessels sank while crews were tackling the fire on the River Chet, with one still to be removed from the waterway.

Boatyards in the area have complained that the wreck is affecting trade by blocking part of the river.

One of the vessels that was damaged in the fire (Image: Phoebe Ozanne, Newsquest) A spokeswoman for Norfolk Fire and Rescue services said: "In the process of fighting the fire, the damage to the boat resulted in it partially sinking.

"Crews had worked hard to secure the boat to prevent it drifting while still on fire and affecting anything else on the river.

“Our crews worked tirelessly for hours to tackle this fire and save a number of other boats. The damage was limited to the three boats that were on fire when they arrived.”

The fire broke out between Pyes Mill picnic area and Loddon marina.

Fiona Husband, director of nearby Pacific Cruisers, said she was concerned about the remaining boat in the river as it is "obstructing navigation”.

“It is causing an extreme inconvenience and dangerous hazard for all boats," she said.

“Due to the location of the wreck, boat services at Pacific Cruisers have been very much limited,” she added, with moorings at the property being “difficult”.

In reports on the fire at Loddon Marina we incorrectly reported that the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service had deliberately sunk two boats.

We would like to clarify that the fire service did not sink the vessels deliberately and they sank as a result of the fire.

We apologise for any confusion caused.