Richard and Eve Harvey, who run the Tayleur Arms in Shropshire, posted an emotional Facebook message as the pub reopened following a £1.2 million refurbishment.
“As we open our doors it’s time thank everyone for the support you’ve given us. Thanks to all those who generously gave gifts, food, clothes and even a caravan for us to live in. The many businesses who offered jobs and use of their facilities. All the customers that sent truly touching messages to us. All of you have been amazing, you helped lift us when we thought we would never recover.”
The couple escaped the pub in the middle of the night along with their son after flames ripped through the pub.
Richard Harvey added: “Eve and I were very excited when the rebuild began and now we can’t wait for the Tayleur Arms’ comeback. Everyone involved in this project has been so supportive, from Enterprise to the contractors to locals, who’ve rallied around. It’s a new building but we see this as a new chapter in the pub’s long-running history.”
Enterprise divisional director Richard Woodward said it was ‘hard to believe the site was the scene of a devastating fire just over-a-year-and-a-half ago.’
Exclusive figures obtained the by PMA revealed that chimneys were one of the most common causes of fires across the UK, and that arson is also a significant problem. In the West Midlands, 42% or all fires were caused by arson.
Licensees have been urged to have chimney flutes regularly swept, and implement a good closing up routine, making sure bins are empty and turning off appliances.