Fire engulfs The Crooked House pub - flames and smoke seen pouring out of iconic building
The Crooked House - a renowned pub in the Black Country - has become engulfed in flames this evening.
A picture shared on Facebook displayed the renowned location on fire, with fiery blaze and billowing fumes emanating from the historical structure dating back to the 18th century.
According to Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service, they received a phone call at 10pm. Currently, there are six teams present from both Staffordshire and West Midlands Fire Service, working together at the location.
Ash Smith saw the fire and contacted the fire department. He shared with the Express & Star: "I headed to my barn to ensure the well-being of my horses and noticed a substantial amount of smoke originating from The Crooked House region. We approached the scene to get a better view and realized it was engulfed in flames."
He stated that the pathway leading to the bar off Himley Road, situated between Dudley and Himley, had been obstructed, thus preventing firefighters from reaching the fire in close proximity.
Speaking just after midnight, he stated: "The fire is still ablaze at this moment. Six fire trucks are present, diligently supplying water through their hoses and retrieving water from the nearby stream."
According to a representative from Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service, teams from Kinver, Dudley, Brierley Hill, Tipton, Chase Terrace, and Cannock were present at the location.
A portion of Himley Road, from the intersection with High Arcal Road extending towards the junction at Brookbank Road and Summit Place, has been blocked off to vehicles.
The Crooked House has been granted Grade II listed status since 1960.
Previously named 'The most eccentric pub in Britain', the peculiar structure was purchased by Marston's in late July, following its inclusion in a selection of 61 pubs put on the market by the company four months prior. Its initial asking price was set at £67,000.
According to reports, the sale made it highly unlikely for The Crooked House to reopen its doors to customers who enjoy drinks. Instead, the establishment will be utilized for another purpose, though the specific nature of this alternative use remains undisclosed.
The Crooked House was renowned for being the spot where coins and marbles appeared to move uphill along the counter.
Last month, the owners had no choice but to shut down the establishment due to significant financial losses resulting from a burglary.
A few days subsequent to the announcement of the sale, a request was initiated with the objective of preserving the edifice. As of Saturday evening, it had gathered over 3,500 endorsements.
