Inquiry into pub fire continues

A security guard stayed at the scene throughout the night

Investigations are continuing to try and establish the cause of a fire which ruined one of the oldest pubs in the Midlands.

The thatched roof of The Fleece Inn at Bretforton, near Evesham, caught fire at about 1200 GMT on Friday.

About 50 firefighters attended the scene after staff had tried to put out the flames.

The pub is owned by the National Trust and is famous for hosting asparagus auctions using produce from the Vale.

Priceless pewter

A spokesman for West Mercia Fire Service said the fire spread very quickly and caused "extensive damage" to the building.

Their investigation team are trying to find out how the fire started but say they believe it could have been caused by a spark from the chimney.

A priceless pewter collection dating back to the Stewart period was saved from the 600-year-old building which has been a pub since 1848.

Landlord Nigel Smith said the support he had received from everyone involved had helped him deal with the tragic event.

"It is a very special pub. It is at the heart of the community and we are very saddened by what has happened." Christine Doyle, National Trust

"It has been very difficult but I have had some excellent support from staff, friends, neighbours, the National Trust and the fire brigade. They have done their best to help minimise the damage."

Christine Doyle, from the National Trust said she was hopeful the pub could be saved.

"It is a very special pub. It is at the heart of the community and we are very saddened by what has happened.

"It has a fascinating history, linking it to all sort of stories with witches and owls on the roof.

"We are extremely hopeful it can be saved. Our building surveyors, buildings team and conservators have been here looking to see what we can do but, we are hopeful."