ESSEX Fire crews have been working round the clock since yesterday in a bid to put out a large fire at a thatched pub.

Fire crews from across the county were called out to the scene yesterday morning Sunday, March 27, after the alarm was raised. 

A passer-by had noticed a fire at the Axe and Compasses pub in Arkesden.

Gazette:

On arrival, fire crews say the building was fully in flames with 55 per cent of the main building alight and 100 per cent of the roof on fire.

The water bowser unit was needed to deliver a steady supply of water.

Gazette:

By 5pm, the fire was still raging and the roof and first floor collapsed into the pub.

By 8pm, Essex County Fire and Rescue had reduced the number of crews in attendance with further change overs planned for midnight and 4am.

At 9pm yesterday, Incident Commander, Craig McLelland, said: “Crews worked really hard today and used a collaborative approach to tackle the fire as effectively as possible.

Gazette:

“Due to the thatched roof, the fire spread quickly and unfortunately both the roof and first floor fell in. Crews will continue to be on-site, damping down any hotspots until tomorrow morning.

“We’d like to thank members of the local community who were on-hand to collect furniture salvaged by our firefighters to a designated safe space away from the building.

Gazette:

"Where disaster strikes, it’s heart-warming to see communities come together to make a positive difference.

“Our thoughts go out to the long-term Landlord of the Axe and Compasses, where 150 people were due to eat for Mother’s Day today.

"It's looking like the cause of the fire was accidental, but a full investigation is being carried out.”