Sunderland's Roker Pier to remain closed after Storm Babet damage

Everyone is being urged to stay away from Roker Pier until repairs have been done

Sunderland's Roker Pier is likely to remain closed "for some time" after being badly damaged by Storm Babet.

Waves and winds destroyed several metres of railings on Thursday and Friday, according to the city council.

Sections of decking around the Grade II listed pier's lighthouse were also washed into the sea.

Council leader Graeme Miller said the damage had left the area unsafe for the public until repairs are carried out.

An initial assessment of the site was carried out on Monday with further inspections due to establish the full extent of the storm's impact.

Mr Miller said: "We know how much residents and visitors value the pier and will want to see it reopen. But we need to fully assess the damage before we can look at a programme of repairs.

"So for now, the pier needs to remain closed and I would urge people not to venture on to it as it is not safe."

The ferocity of the storm washed the pier's railings into the sea

A large yellow buoy, believed to have been blown along the coast from South Tyneside, has been removed from Roker Beach after damaging promenade railings in several places.

The council said it was in discussion with the object's owners to determine how it could be returned to them or disposed of.

Areas across the UK were battered by the storm's heavy winds and rain with seven people believed to have died as a result.

More than 90 flood warnings are in place and a spokesperson for the Environment Agency said flooding could last until Wednesday in England.