The Wheatsheaf in Edith Weston badly damaged in fire - cause under investigation

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue were called out to the pub in King Edwards Way at about 1pm. The blaze has been put out but fire crews are still at the scene, damping down and trying to make the roof secure after it was badly damaged.

Front of house manager Amanda McLeish said she smelt burning and was alerted to the fire after a member of the public, who was enjoying a meal outside in the sunshine, said there was smoke coming from an upstairs window.

She said she evacuated the pub of staff and customers, before alerting the emergency services.

She said by the time the first fire crews arrived, the pub was well alight.

No-one was injured in the blaze but a parrot belonging to the landlord, who lived above the pub, died in the blaze.

Watch manager Dean Thornton said the cause was being investigated.

He said when crews arrived, the fire was “well established n the first floor and there was smoke coming from an upstairs window and the roof”.

Five firefighters entered the building wearing breathing apparatus to tackle the fire.

He said that crews were in the process of recovering stock from the building.

Everards Brewery owns the building.

A spokesman said: “We have staff at the scene currently supporting our licensee and we are awaiting the outcome of the fire investigation.”

One lane of Manton Road is closed as a result of the fire.

Fire crews from Oakham, Stamford, Corby, Melton and Wigston were called. The command support vehicle from Shepshed was also called and a logistical support unit from Uppingham.