A ‘CATASTROPHIC’ fire at a ‘landmark’ pub and hotel in Lutterworth has prompted a community fund-raising campaign to help the venue’s owners.
The Shambles caught fire at around 12.30pm on Monday (February 13).
Fire engines from Leicestershire, Warwickshire and Northamptonshire tackled the blaze at the Bell Street venue – the oldest timber-framed building in Lutterworth which dates back to the 16th century.
All people were accounted for, with one casualty reported to have suffered from smoke inhalation.
Monitoring of hot spots continued throughout the night. The cause has not yet been determined.
A spokesperson for Rugby Fire Station, which sent two fire engines to the incident, said: “The Shambles had a thatched roof. These are unfortunately prone to complete destruction once they catch fire. They are notoriously difficult to extinguish as they are water-repellant, and so a dense fire can burn slowly for hours on the inside before it reaches the surface, which is often caged, making it hard to break up.
“The cause is still under investigation, but a common cause of thatch fire is chimney damage or debris.”
The pub has been deemed unsafe and cordoned off. The Shambles’ website said it would be closed until further notice due to the ‘catastrophic’ fire.
A message on social media read: “We are so thankful to the amazing fire service that stopped the spread to our building.
“But there has been damage and there’s a safety issue which means we will have to stay closed until it’s deemed safe and we’ve made repairs. Please be patient with us during this time.”
Alberto Costa, the MP for South Leicestershire, said: “Absolutely terrible to see the fire at The Shambles – a real landmark in the town.
“My thoughts are with the owners and staff. Grateful to Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service for their swift response.”
A spokesperson for John Wycliffe Primary School (JWPS) said it was an ‘incredibly sad day for our town’.
They added: “This place is iconic in Lutterworth and has been central to keeping our sleepy market town alive for so many years, decades and even centuries.
“The businesses behind and adjacent that have be similarly affected are all part of the spirit of this town fighting against the ‘out of town shopping’ push we all know.
“JWPS is fully behind efforts to rebuild, renew and regenerate this important few square yards of our very centre of town. Please reach out and ask, we will help in anyway we can.”
A fund-raising appeal on JustGiving.com has already raised over £1,120.
Nathan Green, who launched the appeal, said: “We’re looking to raise money to support the family at The Shambles after today’s devastating fire.
“The pub has supported the community for many years and it would be nice to show them we care and support them at this difficult time.”
Visit https://tinyurl.com/3a6ecbp9 to donate.
