The Racing Greyhound pub in Ramsgate has had to shut for possibly up to six weeks after a kitchen fire yesterday (October 15).
Kent Fire and Rescue Service was called to reports of the fire at 11.10am.
Four fire engines attended and crews wearing breathing apparatus used hose reel jets and main jets to extinguish the flames.
The incident was later reduced to two fire engines as crews dampened down at the scene. No injuries were reported.
Landlords Debbie and Keith Barnett have been at the Greyhound for 16 years and have a loyal following of regulars, families, diners and community support.
It was hoped that the bar could reopen today but due to areas having no electricity or hot water the couple have announced the closure while work to make repairs takes place.
On the pub facebook page, the couple say: “We are so sorry to announce this news, but unfortunately due to the damage caused from the fire, we have no option but to completely close the pub.
“This decision has not been easy, but due to areas having no electricity and we have no hot water facilities due to the fire damage, we cannot offer the high standard of service we pride ourselves on.
“Bookings have already started to be contacted to either rearrange functions at either The Bell Inn, Minster or Lesters, Margate, but please bear with us as we try our best to meet everyone’s needs.
“We are incredibly sad to be closing. The pub is more than building, it’s a lifeline to many and a home and we promise to reopen as quickly as we can. It may be up to 6 weeks, but until building work is started, we simply cannot give a timeline.
“Thank you for everyone’s kind words of support. We truly do have the best customers. And to all the other hospitality businesses who have offered us help, from fridge space to heaters, we value your support so much.”
The parents-of-two also head up The Bell Inn at Minster, which they took over in 2019, Lesters which they took on this year and the Jolly Farmer at Manston which is not currently open.
There has been a huge swell of support and offers of help from customers and fellow businesses.
