A section of Seaham Promenade has collapsed overnight. 

The southern section of the promenade, near to Featherbed Rocks, has been closed by Durham County Council following the incident today (Thursday, November 21). 

The collapse has resulted in a large opening in the promenade deck - with pictures online showing the gaping hole and the sunken concrete, which has been left facing upwards at an angle. 

The reason behind the collapse is not yet known. 

The authority said it was currently assessing the situation with a view to "carrying out appropriate repairs as soon as possible"  with further updates set to be provided.

The incident follows a period of stormy weather across the North East, with snow, ice, and sub-zero temperatures being common across this week. 

The Met Office is also predicting further disruption, with Seaham included on the yellow weather warning for snow and ice until 10am on Friday (November 22).

You can read more about the weather forecast this weekend here: North East weather: New Met Office yellow warnings all week

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A full statement from the council said: "A section of Seaham Promenade has collapsed overnight, resulting in a large opening in the Promenade Deck.

"For public safety, the southern section of the promenade, near to Featherbed Rocks, has been closed

"We are currently assessing the situation with a view to carrying out appropriate repairs as soon as possible. Further updates will be provided."