Southwold’s Lord Nelson Inn to shut overnight after blaze broke out in grounds

Crews from Halesworth, Beccles and Lowestoft South fire stations were sent to the Lord Nelson Inn in East Street at 4.06pm.

Firefighters managed to put out flames that sparked in an outbuilding next to the main pub within an hour.

Witnesses said there was a lot of dark smoke blowing out onto the prom, but firefighters arrived quickly and were able to stop the fire from spreading.

One added that they could see the smoke from the other side of the seafront, while others feared the pub itself may be alight.

A fire broke out in an outbuilding next to the Lord Nelson Inn in Southwold this evening. Picture: THE INDEPENDENT (Image: Archant)

Representatives for the Lord Nelson, operated by Adnams, said: “It was a very small fire, it was in an ancillary building out the back and we think it started in a tumble dryer.

“We are shut tonight but we are open again tomorrow. No-one was hurt.”

Fire chiefs are expected to remain at the scene throughout the evening to carry out an investigation into the cause of the blaze.

A Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: “The incident was initially described as a building fire, it was in an outbuilding and was under control within an hour.”

Bosses added that the pub itself was not affected.

The fire was among several incidents tackled by crews in Lowestoft today.

This morning, firefighters were sent to a care home in the town following reports of smoke in the corridors.

When they arrived at Fiske Gardens, operated by Hanover Housing, crews managed to get inside and evacuate residents.

Everyone was out and accounted for by approximately 12.40pm.

One person was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.

Later in the day, crews from Lowestoft South were called to Holly Garden Nurseries in Blundeston to reports a caravan was on fire.

A 20ft caravan was alight and several fire engines were sent to help bring the blaze under control.

They had made the scene safe by 4pm.