Firefighters remain on scene of catastrophic hotel blaze
Firefighters remained on the scene of a former hotel and wedding venue today four days after it was completely destroyed by fire.
The ferocity of the fire that gutted the Mill Hotel in Alveley, near Bridgnorth, was so great fire crews have been dampening down and searching for hot spots since the blaze first broke out on Monday.
Investigations are continuing into the cause of the fire, but firefighters have confirmed 100 per cent of the building has been destroyed.
Police have said they will know more about what started the blaze once the fire service has moved off the scene.
Ashley Brown, watch manager at Bridgnorth Fire Station, said: "We are still clearing and dampening down, which has been taking place throughout the week.
"There are still some hot spots because of the intensity of the fire.
"Because of the shape and style of the building we need to make sure everything is safe before we hand it back to the responsible person.
"We are conscious of how long everything has taken but because of the complexity of the building, unfortunately needs must at the moment.
"The building has been 100 per cent destroyed by the fire and an investigation between Shropshire Fire and Rescue and the police is ongoing."
The Mill was left a shell of its former self after being gutted by Monday's blaze, which caused millions of pounds of damage.
The hotel, which overlooks picturesque gardens and a pool, dates back to the 16th century and was popular with couples tying the knot from across the Midlands.
But it shut its doors unexpectedly in late September leaving staff locked out and couples facing a battle over their deposits for weddings.
