North Wexford pub is gutted by fire
AN investigation is under way into how one of North Wexford’s most popular pubs down through the decades was gutted in a fire in the early hours of Monday morning.
The roof and large portions of the interior of the Macamore Inn in the centre of Ballygarrett village were destroyed in a blaze which swept through the large premises over a number of hours.
Emergency services were contacted and three units of Gorey and Wexford Firebrigade arrived, their teams battling the fire until it was extinguished.
Extensive fire, smoke and water damage has meant the premises will have to be knocked to the ground.
Gardaí preserved the scene and carried out a technical examination.
A garda spokesperson said an investigation is under way into the blaze.
Cllr Mary Farrell, who played music in the venue in her teens, said it used to be the place to go to, especially during the summer months when hundreds of tourists visited the venue each year.
The pub, which contained a lounge and restaurant, closed around three years ago, having had several different owners over the decades, the latest being the Bolgers from Cavan.
Cllr Farrell said: ‘It’s sad to see but it has been left derelict. It’s a very prominent property right in the middle of the village where there is only one other pub which is very small.
‘The Inn used to be called The Thatch; it was the place to be back in the day. It’s sad to see it being destroyed especially coming into the tourist season. Now it’s a safety issue as there is access around the back of it.’