Fire Destroys 700-Year Old Pub

8th December 2011, 08:38

Fire's badly damaged Milton Keynes Village's historic Swan Inn pub, which is more than 700 years old.

The fire broke out in the roof just before 4pm on Wednesday 7 December 2011, before spreading to the pub's first and ground floors.  More than forty firefighters were called out to tackle the flames.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is due to be started on Thursday 8 December.

Group Manager Greg Smith from Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service said "all the customers and staff were able to leave the building safely.  Part of the roof has collapsed inwards."

Crews from Broughton, Bletchley, Great Holm, Newport Pagnell and Buckingham were sent to the fire.  Crews from Winslow, Aylesbury and Woburn were called in to provide back-up cover at fire stations in Milton Keynes.

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Steve Wilkins who runs the 13th Century pub said “Our immediate concern was the safety of our customers and staff and I’m pleased to confirm that no-one was injured in the fire. However, we’re devastated to see what’s happened and I’m sorry for the inconvenience this will cause our customers. We’ll assess the site when it’s safe to do so and will be back open as soon as possible.”

The pub is owned by Charles Wells and Operations Director Craig Mayes added “It’s too early to identify the cause of the fire, or the extent of the damage but our priority now is to work with Steve and his team to restore the business.”

If anyone has a booking at The Swan Inn, they’re asked to ring the Charles Wells helpdesk on 01234 279105 during working hours (9am to 5.15pm Monday to Friday) for further information and for us to help them with making alternative arrangements.

Second picture courtesy of Connor Perrin