Fire that devastated disused historic pub is investigated
A FIRE that devastated a grade II-listed pub dating back to the 16th century is under investigation.
Around 80 firefighters battled the blaze at the Burn Bullock in Mitcham, south-west London, on Friday night.
Three of its floors were damaged and the building’s roof was destroyed, the London Fire Brigade said.
Local people said they had been concerned for some time for the future of the building. The fire team are now investigating if the fire was started deliberately or if it was an accident.
The pub was named after Burn Bullock, a cricketer who was secretary of neighbouring Mitcham Cricket Club. Bullock, who was at one time the pub landlord, died in 1954.
“We are horrified by the tragic destruction of the Burn Bullock pub in last night’s fire, although extremely relieved that no one was hurt,” said a statement from the club.
They added their historic pavilion was not damaged. However, an upstairs room in the pub where the Association of Cricket Scorers and Umpires was formed in 1953 has been destroyed.
“A black day for Mitcham. Named in honour of our former player and its former landlord. Disgracefully neglected for years,” said the club on X.
Last year, it was claimed the pub and its parking area was being used as a shared housing unit with mobile homes and the installation of cabins. The space was also being used as a car-repair workshop and scrapyard.
In 2014, a joint operation between the Border Agency, police, Merton council and social services raided the pub and found squatters.
Edward Foley, a local councillor, said the pub had been empty for more than 10 years and is covered in graffiti.
He added people had feared “something would happen to the pub” for quite a while.
Police confirmed there have been no arrests and no one was injured.
The pub is owned by Phoenix Investments Group, which was contacted for comment.