The skeletal remains of Hove’s West pier stand out against the calm blue sea and blue summer skies on Brighton beach.
The West pier opened in 1866 and closed in 1975. Sadly, the pier gradually collapsed during the early 21st century. Major sections collapsed in late 2002, and two fires in March and May 2003 left little of the original structure. The fires remain unexplained to this day. In February 2014, due to stormy weather, the pier split in half and a large part of the centre fell into the sea.
To observe the gradual disintegration of one of Britain's most iconic piers by fire and storm has been heartbreaking.
It is still one of Brighton's most photographed buildings.
woow, talking about bright colors... The water looks very inviting with this crazy hot weather. The color of the water and light blue sky is beautiful. fav
Thanks for the history of this pier- wonderful colors. And a belated welcome to 365 - I haven't been as alert this summer as I should be (blaming it on this awful heat and humidity). Do hope you find that you really enjoy it and you wind up buying yourself your first camera. This is the friendliest most inspirational site!
@milaniet
Thanks Milanie
I'm really enjoying 365 - its a great impetus to get out and about and notice the world around us. I love taking pictures each day and then picking which one to upload. I appreciate all the comments and do find everyone to be friendly and encouraging. And I love checking out everryone else's contribution for the day. There is a lot of talent out there!
A wonderful capture but such a sorry sight. We have the same situation on some of our beaches. Mother nature just doing her thing. I wonder why it is not possible to rebuild with today's knowledge! Btw, I hope you will enter your kitty in MFPIAC ;-)
@ludwigsdiana
Thanks Diana - you always leave such lovely comments.
And, yes, Arky will be making an appearance for MFPIAC!
His friend, Trevor, may even make an appearane as well.
Those two little racals are the reason I started taking pictures and how I ended up at 365!
Stunning colours. I love this view. I have a similar shot taken some years ago when there was a lot more remaining of the pier. I am sorry to see its condition now.
Aww... I remember walking on that pier before it burnt down. My teenage years were spent being a hippy on the beach between the two piers! Ah those were the days my friend....
Thanks Milanie
I'm really enjoying 365 - its a great impetus to get out and about and notice the world around us. I love taking pictures each day and then picking which one to upload. I appreciate all the comments and do find everyone to be friendly and encouraging. And I love checking out everryone else's contribution for the day. There is a lot of talent out there!
Thanks Diana - you always leave such lovely comments.
And, yes, Arky will be making an appearance for MFPIAC!
His friend, Trevor, may even make an appearane as well.
Those two little racals are the reason I started taking pictures and how I ended up at 365!