A large fire broke out at a marina on the Norfolk Broads destroying several boats. 

Thick plumes of black smoke were seen in Chedgrave and Loddon after a fire engulfed boats on the water between Loddon Marina and Pyes Mill Picnic Area. 

At least three boats have been destroyed At least three boats have been destroyed (Image: Submitted) Firefighters from Norfolk and Suffolk sprung into action after receiving the call at 3.20pm with five crews attending the scene. 

In order to put the fire out, two of the boats were purposefully sunk and the fire was fully extinguished by 5.40pm.

The boats were sunk to extinguish the fireThe boats were sunk to extinguish the fire (Image: Michael Anderson) The incident commander for Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service said: "The fire started on one vessel and spread to two others. 

Five fire crews attended the incidentFive fire crews attended the incident (Image: Submitted) "We have sunk two boats and managed to save one.

"Efforts are being made to protect the nature reserve downriver."

It is understood that nobody was injured in the incident and that all of the boats were empty when the fire broke out.