An investigation is underway after fire swept through Teignmouth’s seafront Beachcomber Café last night.

More than 20 firefighter tackled the blaze which flared up just before 11pm.

The kitchen was severely damaged by fire while the rest of the premises on The Den were badly affected by smoke and heat.

Six sets of breathing gear were worn as crews battled to save the popular venue on the promenade.

Three hosereel jets and a safety jet were used to knock out the fire together with a ventilation fan to clear smoke from the property.

The fire was extinguished by 11.30pm as police were called to control large crowds who gathered to watch the drama.

A fire spokesman said the incident was the subject of an investigation to establish the cause.