Alarming footage shows a Harvester pub on fire in a seaside resort. Smoke billows from the building in Littlehampton, West Sussex, in footage shared on X, formerly known as Twitter. Twelve fire crews continue to tackle the blaze, which started in the kitchen and quickly ravaged the roof.
A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: “At 8.51am we were called to a fire at a restaurant in Coastguard Road, Littlehampton. Upon arrival firefighters were met with a fire in the kitchen, which has since spread to the roof.
“We currently have ten fire engines and an aerial ladder platform at the scene, working hard to bring the fire under control. Due to the large smoke plume, we would ask all residents to avoid the area, including the seafront, and to keep their doors and windows closed. All roads surrounding Coastguard Road have been closed. There are no injuries and everyone has been accounted for.”
Speaking since the statement, the service increased its presence. It confirmed 12 fire engines, two aerial ladder platforms and two water carriers were present by 11am.
The adjacent cinema – Windmill Theatre – suffered minor damage. “I have just been at the scene and although the harvester restaurant has been destroyed the cinema building has been saved and has relatively minor water damage,” Kevin Orman, manager of the independent cinema, told Mirror.
Writing on X, one resident said: “Very sad to see the Harvester, Littlehampton on fire right now. Hope all OK.” Another posted online: “These photos are devastating to see.” Others reported seeing smoke from around five miles away.
Sussex Police confirmed to Mirror it is assisting with the operation. A spokesperson for Harvester said: “We are grateful and wish to thank the emergency services who are responding to the incident at the Windmill. Once we have a clear understanding of the extent of the damage we will provide updates to guests who planned to visit us, but at the moment our priority is to ensure the safety and security of the building.”
Harvesters serve breakfast but no one was hurt in the blaze. Home to a beach, large parks and Britain’s longest bench, Littlehampton is popular with tourists.
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