The Bell pub has stayed open despite a blaze gutting its front doors on Saturday (1st March), reports Marco Marcelline

The manager of a Walthamstow pub that caught fire on the weekend has described his relief that only the front doors were damaged.

The Saturday morning fire is currently being investigated by the Metropolitan Police, who are ascertaining whether it was deliberate or not.

General manager Dave Morrish, who lives on top of the Bell, told the Echo that he was woken up at around 4am on Saturday (1st March) by the fire.

He safely evacuated along with five other team members and their pets, and then waited until the firefighters got the situation under control.

Dave said: “Thank God the fire didn’t spread to the rest of the pub because it’s 90% wood; the floors, furniture and bar are all wooden.”

He added that the destroyed doors, which had cost the pub “thousands”, had been fitted just two months prior.

Despite the fire damage, The Bell re-opened just after 12pm on Saturday (1st March). The Bell is currently operating at a reduced capacity due to it now having fewer fire exits in operation.

In a message posted on social media prior to the re-opening, The Bell said: “It may have been a bit of a hotter morning than we’ve had in a while and we’re happy to say, everyone including team, neighbours and pets, are safe and sound.

“But do not despair, we are never out. Thank you all for your love and support, and we’ll see you soon.”

Waltham Forest Council leader Grace Williams reacted to the fire on social media, stating: “I was saddened and concerned to hear about the fire that broke out outside the Bell Pub in Walthamstow.

“Waltham Forest teams have been supporting emergency services who have confirmed that the fire has been completely extinguished and there are no casualties.

“The Bell is a beloved community pub, and I know it’s been a shock for many residents to see its entrance ruined.”

A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade said: “The Brigade was called to a fire at a pub with flats above on Saturday at 3.57am and the incident was over by 4.43am.

“Six people left the building before the Brigade arrived. A small part of a doorway was damaged by fire. Fire crews from Walthamstow, Leyton and Tottenham fire stations were in attendance.”

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