This is the moment heroic firefighters fought 10-foot-high flames towering over them as a blaze engulfed the Osborne View Hotel in Hill Head.

More than 60 firefighters from across the county, supported by crews from Ringwood, descended to the seafront to tackle the fire which took over the Victorian building just before 2.30am this morning.

The pub, described as an 'anchor to the community' was almost completely destroyed by the fire.

Mike Nash lives four doors down from the pub and woke up to all of the commotion.

Although he wasn't evacuated, his immediate neighbours were and he spoke to the Echo about the impact this tragedy would have on the community.

He said: "The hotel is the anchor of the community, it has been standing since Victorian times and has survived two World Wars.

"It was home of the special boat service during the Second World War.

"Collectively, I think there’s a real sense of grief among the community here in Hill Head."

Matt Kearsey, Managing Director, Hall & Woodhouse, said all the team onside had been evacuated before coming to any harm.

"The wellbeing of all those affected is our primary concern and we will be providing support and reassurance to all those who require it." he said.

He thanked the quick response from the firefighters saying: "I would like to pass on my deepest gratitude to the emergency crews for their swift action and bravery."

He added: "We will be supporting the emergency services fully in any forthcoming investigation into the cause of the fire."