AN MP has joined the calls to save a pub after it was badly damaged in a fire.

Rayleigh and Wickford MP Mark Francois has reacted to the tragic news of the recent fire at The Bull, Hockley, with a plea to the pub’s owners Greene King that the pub should be restored to its former glory and reopened as soon as practically possible.

The popular local pub, which is Grade II listed and parts of which date back to the 16th century, was gutted by fire over the weekend.

While the damage is still being examined, it appears that much of the roof has been burnt away and part of the interior - although not all of it - have also been badly damaged by the fire.

Fortunately, it appears much of the internal walls are still intact.

Given the importance of this popular asset to the local community, Mark Francois wrote quickly to the management of the pub.

Mark Francois said: “The fire at The Bull has been a tragic event but I am determined to try and prevent this popular venue being lost forever.

"I have asked to meet with the chief executive of Greene King, Mr Rooney and, to talk about the future of the pub and what might be necessary in order to save it.

"I am confident that in this action I will have the support of my constituents, many of whom will have happily visited The Bull down the years.

"I will endeavour to keep my constituents updated as developments surrounding this important local landmark play out.”