Dominic Chapman's Belgian Arms pub hit by fire

Dominic Chapman's Belgian Arms pub in Holyport near Maidenhead in Berkshire has closed following a kitchen blaze yesterday.

Chapman revealed on social network Twitter that the fire started on the kitchen roof, although the cause is not yet clear.

"It all happened very quickly, fire brigade did an amazing job in stopping it being a lot worse. Not good," he commented.

Staff at the pub are expected to begin clearing up after the damage today, although it is not yet known how long the restaurant will remain closed for.

Chapman and his business partner, restaurateur Nick Parkinson, son of veteran TV presenter Michael Parkinson, took over the running of the 200-year-old, Brakspear-owned Belgian Arms in September last year, promising to offer a friendly atmosphere and unfussy but high-quality food. It is the duo's second property - they also own the Michelin-starred The Royal Oak.

Brakspear chief executive Tom Davies said: "We were informed of the fire at the Belgian Arms by tenant Nick Parkinson this morning and within 10 minutes had arranged for electrical and building contractors to visit the site.

"We are of course pleased that nobody was injured by the fire and are grateful to Berkshire Fire and Rescue for dealing with it very promptly.

"The cause of the fire is being investigated and Brakspear, with the tenants, is cooperating with the local fire authority in its investigation. We take our health and safety obligations very seriously.

"We will work with the lessees to ensure that all necessary works are undertaken to ensure that the pub is able to open again as soon as possible."

Image via Twitter @DomChapman