An historic pub which was devastated in a blaze could be out of action for up to a year.

Devastated - landlady Wendy O'Brien outside the fire-damaged remains of The Plough

More than 30 firefighters fought the fire at 16th century Plough Inn in Great Clacton last week.

Landlord Tim O'Brien and his wife, Wendy, managed to get their three young children out of the burning building in North Road. But the fire has left the remains of the charred roof in danger of caving in.

The Plough is a listed building and strict planning regulations are likely to be called for when it is rebuilt. It could be between six months and a year before the pub is opened again.

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Published Tuesday, September 28, 2004

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