A firefighter needed hospital treatment after crews battled a blaze at the Black Horse pub in Devizes on Saturday night.

They recieved a call at approximately 22.30 on Saturday and crews attended a serious fire involving the first floor and roof of the pub.

Two fire engines from Devizes were initially sent and they were confronted with a developing fire which was just starting to break through the roof. All occupants had been evacuated but it was quickly recognised that due to the extent of the fire, further help would be needed. Additional pumps were sent from Melksham, Calne and Trowbridge as well as an aerial platform from Salisbury and a Command Support team from Stratton.

All crews were quickly in place and gradually the severe fire was brought under control using 6 jets, ladders and the aerial platform. There were fears that the fire would spread to the neighbouring attached property but the swift actions by the first crews prevented any serious damage to this property. There was a need to supplement the water supply by deploying a portable pump to draw water from the Kennet and Avon canal.

Station Manager Ade Hurren, who attended as the Incident Commander praised the work of the crews saying "I was very impressed with the efforts of the initial crews as they fought to contain a seriously developing fire".

One fire fighter sustained injuries during the course of the incident and was taken to the Great Western Hospital but was soon discharged after precautionary checks.

Crews were in attendance throughout the night damping down hot spots and making the building safe. The Fire Investigation team are now in attendance to determine the cause of the fire which is thought to have been accidental.