Pershore fire: Drone picture of damage at Belle House

Benvenuti Belle House on Bridge Street in Pershore has been forced to close until further notice after a devastating fire broke out at the eatery.

Seven fire engines were called to the three-storey building yesterday (Tuesday) to put out the blaze, which had closed the road for several hours. 

Bird's eye images taken by Marc Bradley of the building show the true extent of the damage the fire caused, which may not be seen by people passing by on the High Street.

The birdseye images show the extent of the damage. (Image: Marc Bradley)The images show one section of the roof destroyed, with its slates neatly swept up on the floor below.

Severe damage can also be seen towards the back of the building, with the restaurant's conservatory being covered in debris and a window broken,

The walls and the roof at the back of the property are also severely damaged.

Firefighters from across Worcestershire and neighbouring counties were called to the blaze at 12.24am yesterday (December 19) and stayed at the scene throughout the day.

SHOCKING: Benvenuti Belle House after the fire. (Image: Marc Bradley)West Mercia Police and West Midlands Ambulance were also in attendance.

Wychavon District Council is encouraging shoppers to head to Bridge Street to do their shopping after businesses lost a day's worth of trade during the important Christmas period.

A spokesperson said: "Our hearts go out to Benvenuti Belle House, Pershore, we're sending them all our heartfelt sympathies.

"Pershore High Street is open today. So why not pop in, grab a coffee, do some Christmas shopping or treat yourself to something special?"

Neighbours told of their sadness after police banged on doors in an attempt to evacuate adjoining properties.

A spokesperson for the restaurant said: "To our customers at Benvenuti Belle House.

"Unfortunately, in the early hours of this morning, a fire broke out at the restaurant, causing some significant damage, which now means we will be unable to open and will be closed until further notice.

Debris was still scattered across the floor when the images was taken. (Image: Marc Bradley)"We are absolutely gutted to be writing this as we were so excited to be welcoming everyone to the restaurant over the festive period.

"We are currently unable to contact those who have booked as we are not allowed inside the restaurant currently.

"We thank you for your continued support and would appreciate your understanding at this difficult time."

A spokesperson for West Midlands Ambulance said no one needed treatment from them.

One neighbour living on Bridge Street said: “I woke to a policeman banging on the door of the house, number 7 and fortunately she wasn’t in. 

"We eventually went to bed at about half past three.

"We were told no one was involved by the owner of the business.

"There were police around and fire engines, but I couldn’t see any ambulances.”

Bridge Street reopened at 4.39pm yesterday (Tuesday).