One of Britain’s oldest pubs has been destroyed together with four adjacent homes in a huge fire in Stokenham.

The fire in the 14th Century thatched Tradesman’s Arms is believed to have started in the kitchen and spread to nearby properties.

Fire crews were called to the village just after midnight today (Monday) with fire engines and personnel from 18 fire stations attending. The pub describes itself as a "turn of the 14th Century thatched pub and restaurant," on its website.

Fire crews initially tried to save the building from inside - but had to withdraw because of the intensity of the blaze.

Fire station manager Dan Taylor told us: "Unfortunately we had to move out. The chimneys and the floors were starting to collapse."Police said no significant injuries other than minor smoke inhalation had been reported.

Officers confirmed four residential homes and the pub had been destroyed.

A Kingsbridge police spokesperson confirmed: "Fire has destroyed four residential homes and The Tradesman’s Arms, Stokenham.

"Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service remain on scene to dampen down and investigate the cause of the fire."