A POPULAR pub which suffered severe damage during a fire will not be demolished.

The Bull Inn, in Main Road, Hockley, was engulfed in flames after a large fire took hold in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The fire left the community concerned for the future of the pub which is a grade II listed building dating back to the 16th century.

Historic England, the Government body for preserving places of historic interest, has confirmed it will work with the owners to restore the building where possible.

Duncan Wilson, chief executive of Historic England, said in a letter to members: “We will be sending inspectors down in the next few days to assess the damage.

“We will then offer guidance to the owners, Greene King IPA, in terms of rebuild and renovations.

“This is a nationally listed structure that dates to the Elizabethan period and demolition of such an important building is not something we would advise or authorise .

“We will be working with the owners and the council to make sure the building thrives once again.”

Mark Francois, MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, added: “The fire at The Bull has been a tragic event but I am determined to try and prevent this popular venue being lost forever.

“I have asked to meet with the chief executive of Greene King, Mr Rooney Anand, to talk about the future of the pub and what might be necessary in

order to save it. I am confident in this action I will have the support of my constituents,

many of whom will have happily visited The Bull down the years.”

A spokesman for the pub said: “We would like to thank everyone for their support - it has been very humbling and shows us what this great pub means to this community.

“While there is clearly significant damage to the property and possessions, the most important thing is all team members and guests are OK and no one was hurt.”

An investigation is ongoing into the cause of the fire.