Fire breaks out at county's 'oldest pub'

Firefighters remain at the Black Bear Pub in Tewkesbury

A town centre road is closed after a fire broke out at a 700-year-old pub.

Crews from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service were called to the Black Bear pub on Tewkesbury High Street at 16:00 GMT on Tuesday.

Two appliances from Cheltenham and Gloucester were sent to the scene and the road remains closed, the fire service said.

The pub dates back to 1308 and is thought to be the oldest in the county.

A spokesperson from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service said crews remain at the scene.

"The High Street in Teweksbury is currently closed to allow emergency services to work safely. We ask the public to avoid the area and follow any local traffic diversions."

Mark Adcock said he was leaving the pub when he noticed smoke coming out from under the roof tiles.

"I went back in to get a member of staff. We just cleared the pub, got everyone out, and waited for the fire brigade.

"It was calm. The last thing we need is the oldest pub in Gloucestershire being burnt to the ground."