Fire crews rush to blaze at JJ's Taphouse in Emsworth as it spreads to the Bell Inn pub's roof
Two businesses affected by early morning fire
A fire has affected a Hampshire restaurant and pub with firefighters rushing to Emsworth this morning.
The blaze affected JJ’s Taphouse in South Street, Emsworth before it spread further to kitchen roof of the Blue Bell Inn next door in the early hours of Saturday, July 11. Both businesses have posted updates online stating that no-one has been hurt in the incident.
JJ’s Taphouse posted on Instagram: “Thank you to everyone who has reached out after the fire early this morning. We would like to say that no one has been harmed and the authorities had the situation under control. We’d like to reassure everyone that the fire did not start within JJ’s premises.”
The eatery advised that an electrician had visited the property following the extinguishing of the fire and it will open as normal today.
The post said: “We’re pleased to let you know that JJ’s will be open today as normal. A huge thank you to everyone who reached out - your support means so much to us.”
While the fire spread to a small part of the Blue Bell Inn, the pub may not be able to open today with significant damage caused to its kitchen roof.
The pub posted on Facebook: “Not quite the wake-up call I was expecting at 2am this morning...The alarm was triggered by a tamper alert, followed by calls from our neighbours. Before the jungle drums start, there was a fire at JJ’s which spread rapidly towards the Blue Bell, reaching our kitchen roof.
“Thankfully, nobody was hurt, and a huge thank you goes to Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service, especially the Emsworth boys first on the scene Graham , Ross , Kev and all , whose quick response prevented the fire from spreading further and brought it under control incredibly quickly.
“Unfortunately, we have sustained significant damage to our kitchen roof, so we won’t be able to open today. Our team is already working hard to get everything sorted. We’re hopeful we may still be able to open this evening for the football, but we’ll keep everyone updated as soon as we know more.”
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service have been approached for comment on the incident. More to follow.