Pictures show how a nearly 200-year-old pub has been gutted in a devastating blaze which fire crews battled for more than three hours.

Four fire engines attended the Welsh Tavern in London Road, Stone, just before 7pm last night (June 11).

Huge plumes of smoke could be seen billowing into the air above the derelict two-storey building, with pictures revealing the extensive damage caused to the roof.

The footpath in front of the building has been taped off, and police vehicles were seen at the scene with one remaining there this morning (June 12).

Video footage taken by a neighbour shows fire crews fighting back the flames using hose reel jets shot through the building’s windows.

There are no reported injuries, and the cause is unknown.

The blaze had been put out by 10.30pm.

A road closure was in place, which has since been lifted, however traffic remains backed up to the Greenhithe area this morning.

The Welsh Tavern’s use as a pub dates back to 1827 but it shut in 2022 after the former landlord and landlady opted out of renewing their lease.

A year later plans were submitted to demolish the building and turn it into flats with off-road parking and a new access road.

However, the application was later withdrawn.

A police spokesperson said: “The cause of the fire is being treated as suspicious and an investigation is underway.”

Anyone with information that may assist should call 01474 366149, quoting reference 46/98399/25.