The owner of a 104-year-old pier that was razed to its foundations by fire has vowed to "work tirelessly" to rebuild the attraction.

Kerry Michael, 49, spent £1 million revamping the Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, but in just 90 minutes it was destroyed.

The entrepreneur said the "tragic event" was "truly devastating" as he only regarded himself as a custodian of the attraction for future generations.

Mr Michael, flanked by more than 20 devoted employees, said "the pier was Weston, Weston was the pier".

He added: "For this tragic event to have taken place on our watch is truly devastating. I feel very sorry for our dedicated staff, many of whom have been on the pier all of their working lives."

He assured Westoners he would not rest until the pier, which he had kitted out with a go-kart track and bar, was back to its "former glory".

He added: "I would like to reassure all these people I have mentioned as well as any others that may be affected that we will work tirelessly to restore this magnificent structure to its former glory.

"Weston is a tourist town and I am sure the redevelopment of the seafront and the surrounding area will continue in earnest and our town and our visitors will continue to enjoy its resources for many years to come."

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