Oxfordshire pub owner shares emotional update after devastating fire

The Crooked Billet in Stoke Row, near Henley, was forced into an abrupt closure after a fire broke out at the venue in the early hours of Sunday, July 12.

Paul Clerehugh said: “Your messages of love, support and offers of help have really warmed my heart.

“Really moving, thank you so much.

“Your Crooked Billet team miss you terribly and can’t wait to welcome you back as soon as possible.

“I’m in the hands of the insurance.

“They’ll tell me the next steps and I’ll keep you posted.

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The fire caused extreme damages to the roof of the pub (Image: Kevin Plummer)

“Again your heartfelt messages they mean the world.

“They’ve kept us all going.”

The roof of the building suffered visible and extensive damage following the blaze, which broke out in the ground floor kitchen before spreading through the historic building.

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed they were called at about 2.20am on Sunday and sent seven fire engines from surrounding towns and villages to the pub, battling the blaze for hours before leaving the scene at 2pm.

Now, Mr Clerehugh is inviting customers to enjoy August Lobster lunch at his riverside brasserie in Reading while the pub remains closed.

The chef is offering lobster lunch, fruit de mer, sharing platter for two and lobster platter takeaway, meals previously offered at the pub in Stoke Row.