Chilford Hall – image courtesy Cambs Fire & Rescue ServiceA devastating fire has caused hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of damage as it tore through a popular Grade-II listed wedding venue in Cambridgeshire.
Two men have been charged with arson with intent to endanger life and are due to appear at Cambridge Magistrates’ Court today after being arrested shortly after the fire broke out on Wednesday morning at Chilford Hall.
Over 60 firefighters attended the scene and tackled the fire with six jets and a light portable pump, and although they were able to prevent the fire spreading several buildings were completely destroyed.
An 18th-century barn, the 19th century Grade-II listed Great Hall, adjoining pavilion and gallery were all lost to the blaze.
However firefighters were able to save the house, wine store and shop.
Simon Alper, one of the owners, said he was “devastated” speaking to Cambridge News.
He went on to say, “There’s a building in the middle which is made of wood and you have a very short space of time to get to it if it catches fire, so in the middle of the night it caught hold.
“The fire brigade have been brilliant to save the winery and study centre.”
Crews spent several hours at the scene and hotspots were still remaining as much as 29 hours after the blaze broke out at around 3am on Wednesday morning.
Staff from Chilford Hall have been working hard to provide alternative arrangements for weddings booked in the coming weeks including one due to have taken place tomorrow.
