Heartbreak as Historic Angel Inn in Midhurst Reduced to Ashes
The Angel Inn, a beloved pub and hotel on North Street, Midhurst, was gutted by a devastating fire in the early hours of March 18. The blaze has left the local community stunned and the owners and staff devastated.
Ukrainian Families Escape Fire as Owners Face Huge Loss
In a heartfelt social media statement, the Angel Inn’s owners thanked the community for their overwhelming support. They revealed that all Ukrainian families living at the inn escaped safely but now face the tough challenge of rebuilding their lives.
“In the early hours of yesterday morning, we witnessed our beloved and immensely precious hotel burn down before our eyes. Words cannot begin to describe the relief that all our dear Ukrainian families escaped safely. Although they now again need to rebuild their lives and start over, this has given our family incredible heartache.”
Emergency Services and Local Businesses Step Up
The Angel Inn was more than bricks and mortar – it was a livelihood for many. The owners extended their gratitude to the heroic emergency services for battling the flames and to nearby Lime and Spice restaurant, which opened its doors to shelter families during the crisis.
“We are still in shock, but we are working with Emergency Services to get Midhurst running back to normal. Please bear with us while we begin the enormous task of piecing back our lives,” they added.
Road Closure and Safety Checks Underway
West Sussex County Council confirmed that the A286 North Street remains closed to vehicles outside The Angel Inn for safety reasons. However, local shops unaffected by the fire, the North Street car park, and the western footpath remain open.
Chichester District Council Building Control is currently assessing the building’s structural damage to decide whether the front facade can be saved and when the road can reopen.
