A VILLAGE pub has temporarily closed following a devastating fire last night (Tuesday, October 4).

The blaze at The Puriton Inn caused significant damage to apart of the building not used by customers.

It led to a loss of electricity and gas.

A social media post by the pub says work is underway to restore services and open to customers again.

The statement, headed 'temporary closure', says: "We are sorry to share the news that last night there was a fire at The Puriton Inn causing significant damage to a non customer facing part of the building.

"The damage resulted in total loss of electric and gas supply to the property.

"We are currently working around the clock to restore services and open to customers once more.

"Electrical engineers, gas engineers and other trades are all scheduled to attend over the coming days and assess the damage and begin work on restoration of services.

"At this moment in time we are unable to offer a definitive reopening date but hope it will be within a number of days.

"For our immediate neighbours please note we are running a generator to maintain supply to some essential equipment but will be mindful of not operating during unsocial hours.

"We look forward to welcoming you back soon."

A spokesperson for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said the fire was reported shortly before 11.30pm.

They added: "There was a fire in the cellar which was extinguished using breathing apparatus and water jets.

"Around 20 per cent of the room was damaged by fire and all of it damaged by smoke."

The fire is believed to have started accidentally.