BOSSES at a popular pub are planning a launch event after a devastating fire.

The Bull Inn, in Main Road, Hockley, will reopen its doors to customers on Monday March 23, with a grand relaunch planned for Friday, March 27.

It was severely damaged after a fire broke out in August 2018.

General manager Steve Playle said he is delighted to be less than two months away from welcoming the community back through the doors of the pub.

He said: “Like everyone else in Hockley, we were extremely upset by the fire and everyone at Greene King was determined that the pub should be rebuilt at the earliest possible opportunity.

“We’re holding the grand launch party and I’m very pleased to say the pub will be reopened by members of the crew at Hawkwell Fire Station.

“The team were among the first on the scene when the fire broke out and fought to protect as much of the building as possible.”

“It will be an honour to welcome them to the pub and show our appreciation.

“We’re also very pleased to say that customers will be treated to a performance by popular singer Alton Edwards, who was a frequent guest at the pub.

“I’m sure customers will be delighted to see him performing again.

“I’d like to thank the entire community for their support and goodwill, which has been greatly appreciated while the rebuilding work has been taking place.”

The pub is a Grade II listed building and parts of its timber frame date back to the 16th century and significant time was needed to record the damage and plan for a full reconstruction.

Plans were submitted to the council last year and the rebuilding project began last summer.

Six fire crews descended on the pub after multiple reports of the large fire at The Bull Inn back on August 4 in 2018.

The accidental fire saw most of the roof of the building destroyed.