‘It will be sorely missed’: Community react after A11 pub is destroyed in devastating fire

Byline: Sonya DuncanCopyright: Archant 2018 (Image: Archant 2017)

Flames ripped through the Breckland Lodge on London Road in Attleborough Tuesday, leaving the pub closed until further notice while the full extent of the damage is assessed.

Mayor of Attleborough Jeremy Burton said: 'I think it is a really sad loss for the town and area, it will be sorely missed.

'Breckland Lodge is greatly loved and a big supporter of the community.

'We were devastated to hear the news and hope it gets back up and running soon as it is a popular meeting point across the whole of Norfolk.'

Byline: Sonya DuncanCopyright: Archant 2018 (Image: Archant 2017)

Staff and customers were ushered to safety at the nearby White Lodge on London Road, Attleborough, after the fire broke out.

The manager David Bear said: 'We were happy to help and though we don't open until 11.30am we had a chef inside prepping and we let people in.

'We provided the staff and some of the Lodge's customers with bacon sandwiches and coffee and then they took some out to the firefighters and police officers.'

A towering plume of smoke could be seen for miles, prompting thousands to take to social media to express their condolences.

Byline: Sonya DuncanCopyright: Archant 2018 (Image: Archant 2017)

For many Breckland Lodge was a signpost on the A11 for those returning to Norfolk and a meeting place known for its carvery.

Lucinda Halls, who works at the Olde Windmill Inn in Great Cressingham, wrote on Facebook: 'May we send our deepest condolences of your tragic loss. As a family run business we know all too well how much love, passion and heart you had put into your business.

'God speed your future recovery, I'm sure you will all dig deep. We are all thinking of you.'

Investigations are still under way to find the cause of the blaze.

The clean-up has begun following a devastating fire at the popular restaurant and hotel, Breckland Lodge, following a 'devastating' fire. Photo: Harriet Orrell (Image: Archant)

General manager Colin Kilby said: 'The support we have received from everybody is really important and we are thankfull for all the messages we have received.

'The whole building is gone and we will be closed for a little while.

'But everything can be rebuilt and the most important thing is that everyone is safe and sound.'

Anyone with queries regarding an existing booking at Breckland Lodge should call their temporary number 01603 617841.

The clean-up has begun following a devastating fire at the popular restaurant and hotel, Breckland Lodge, following a 'devastating' fire. Photo: Harriet Orrell (Image: Archant)

Breckland Lodge on fire (Image: Harriet Orrell) (Image: Archant)

The damage can be seen in the roof of the Stag buildings as the fire comes under control. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2018)

Norfolk Fire Service attending to the serious fire at Breckland Lodge. Picture: NORFOLK FIRE SERVICE (Image: Norfolk Fire Service)

The Stag in Attleborough is on fire (Image: Jordan Appel) (Image: Archant)