Shocked villagers today woke to a scene of devastation after fire ripped through one of Thorpe's oldest buildings.

The blaze virtually destroyed the 400-year-old Bell Hotel and the former verger's cottage nearby.

Thirteen residents were made homeless and scores of villagers came out to watch the drama.

At the height of the blaze, which started in the pub, more than 50 firefighters and eight fire engines were at the scene and the High Street closed to traffic.

Owner Mike Hambling and partner Caro Moore, who are due to marry next week, fought back tears as they said: "It's our life we have lost ... everything in there and we are totally devastated. We have lost every single thing we own."

They were in bed when the blaze broke out at about 11pm last night.

A bar worker raised the alarm and everyone was evacuated from the pub and nearby cottages.

Fire crews came from Clacton, Weeley, Frinton, Colchester, Brightlingsea and Wivenhoe. The cause of the fire is not thought to be suspicious.

No-one was injured in the incident.

Thorpe High Street was due to re-open at lunchtime today.

Scenes of destruction - the blackened remains today

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