FIREFIGHTERS saved a 400-year-old inn from destruction when a restaurant and toilets went up in flames.

Everyone at the award-winning Farmers Boy Inn in Longhope was evacuated safely before four fire engines arrived at the scene around 11.30am on Thursday, May 10.

The 17th Century country inn sustained 50 per cent smoke damage after fire took hold on a flat roof extension at the back of the A40 pub, but staff managed to reopen most of the business the following day.

The cause of the blaze is still being investigated, but the fire is not being treated as suspicious.

Thanking people for their support, Phil Kiernan, who runs the business with wife Manda, said shortly after the blaze had been put out around 1pm: “The fire was contained to the bottom restaurant, toilets and a dessert room, which unfortunately we have lost.

“The kitchen, middle restaurant, lounge, bar and reception as well as our eight ensuite rooms have all been unaffected.”

Despite a “few tears”, he added: “The most important thing is no one was injured.”

The inn, which featured on Channel 4’s Four In a Bed series in 2011, later posted “Got to smile” on social media alongside a picture of a sign on the office door, which says: “Please do not disturb unless building is on fire…”    

A Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue spokesperson said while the blaze was being tackled: “We were called to a fire at the Farmer’s Boy Inn at Longhope, just off the A40

“The latest update from the scene is that our crews were tackling a fire on a flat roof at the back of the pub, approximately 5m x 5m in size.

“Crews from Cinderford and Newent used two hose reels, one jet, four breathing apparatus and a thermal imaging camera, as well as cutting away at the roof space to get better access.

“We were joined by our colleagues at Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, who sent a pump from Ross-on-Wye to assist.

“There was 75 per cent fire damage to the roof extension and 50 per cent smoke damage to the entire building.”

Regular Rob Thomas posted: “Good no one hurt or injured and also good that you are going to be able to get back open quickly, you have amazing staff and a very loyal band of customers, all of which will support the Farmers Boy regardless!”