A CHIMNEY fire at the Old Bell Hotel and Restaurant in Malmesbury needed the attention of crews from Tetbury and Bath on Tuesday (Jan 19) evening.

Fire crews from Tetbury were called at 4pm, extinguishing the blaze with chimney rods but, due to the age and size of the building, an aerial appliance from Bath was also required to inspect the chimney from above and ensure there was no residual flames.

Emergency services cordoned off Abbey Row road passing the hotel while the fire was dealt with.

The Old Bell Hotel in Malmesbury is reputed to be one of England’s oldest hotels, dating back to 1220.