A 15th Century pub in Wheathampstead will remain closed for “some time” after flames tore through the building last Tuesday.

The Swan, in High Street, was forced to shut when a blaze broke out around 6am in the bedroom and spread to the roof resulting in the rescue of four people and a parrot.

According to a spokesperson for the leased pub, which is Grade II listed, the cost of the damage is still being calculated and it could be a while before repair work is complete.

Elaine Beckett, communications and compliance manager at Spirit Pub Company, said: “The pub is currently closed and we are in the process of estimating overall damage and repairs.

“The site has listed building status so it is likely that the closure will be for some time whilst we progress with insurance and then repair the damage to bring the pub back to the community.”

The current licensees were in the process of selling their lease, which they still plan to going ahead with although that could now be subject to delays.

A fire investigation found the cause of the blaze to be accidental and the building has been deemed safe.