Roof blasted off South Shields lighthouse as Storm Babet hits

This is the sad scene up the coast as a North East landmark falls victim to Storm Babet.

Winds of more than 50mph are battering Sunderland and the North East, with heavy rain forecast.

The lighthouse at South Shields is one of the casualties of storm damage, with the roof blasted from the structure as heavy winds and waves hit the South Pier.

Port of Tyne officials said it was not safe to assess the damage to the 1895-built lighthouse, a distinctive landmark with its red and white top, while the ongoing weather conditions remained dangerous.

No traffic was going in and out of the river with six metres of sea swell, it said.

The public have been urged to keep away from the area, particularly the piers, by the port authority, due to the unsafe weather conditions.

A Port of Tyne spokesman said: “Initial assessments indicate that the top dome of the lighthouse has been dislodged by the severe weather conditions.

“Unfavorable weather is expected to continue for several days, making immediate inspections unfeasible.

“However, a comprehensive evaluation of both the North and South pier structures and lighthouses will be conducted as soon as safety permits.

“Shipping activities have been temporarily suspended due to the persistent adverse weather conditions, with little expectation of resuming within the next 24 to 48 hours.

“Both the North and South Piers will remain closed until inspections can be completed, prioritising the safety of all individuals.

“We strongly advise the public to avoid visiting the piers during this time.

“We will continue to closely monitor the situation and take necessary measures to ensure the safety of our community.”

In Sunderland, sea foam has been forming like snow at the sea front as the wind whips the waves, creating surreal scenes.