FIREFIGHTERS who have been at the scene of a destructive pub inferno for nearly a week are expected to begin an investigation into the cause of the fire this week.

Crews from the Essex Fire Service are still currently stationed in Church Street, Harwich, where a devastating blaze resulted in two families being left homeless.

The fire, which was first attended by the emergency services shortly before 8am last Tuesday, ripped through The Hanover Inn before spreading to neighbouring historic cottages. 

More than 177 properties within the area were also left without power for hours on ends following the incident over safety concerns for residents.

Gazette:

Bosses at the Essex Fire Service have now confirmed an investigation into the cause of the inferno will be carried out when it is safe to do so - likely to be at some point this week.

A spokeswoman said: “Our crews remain on-site and are working to make the building safe so the fire investigation can be carried out. 

“Provided all goes to plan, we anticipate the investigation will be done in the early part of this week.

“It’s looking likely we’ll be there for some time but we’re working with partner agencies to identify the best course of action - our priority is to make sure the area is safe.”

READ MORE: Everything we know after historic pub goes up in flames leaving families homeless