A chimney fire at the Fortescue Arms in East Allington almost disrupted the landlords’ first holiday in two years on St George’s Day.

Landlords Adrian Clayton and Ian Flack were just about to leave for their first break away from the pub in two years, when smoke was spotted coming from the chimney, despite no fire having been lit.

Charlie and Carole Edgeler, who are looking after the pub while Adrian and Ian take a break, explained: “It was ironic! But all the staff rallied around to make sure they got away on time.

“We called the Kingsbridge reserve fire brigade, who arrived at about 10.45am.

“Four firefighters rodded the chimney, bringing down twigs and moss from the birds - and this allowed us to open as usual at midday.

“But then later in the afternoon, more puffs of smoke were spotted and the fire brigade was called for a second time. The same four reservists turned up and determined that some further debris had fallen within the 200 year old chimney.

“The firefighters were able to extinguish and remove the matter.”

Charlie added: “We’d like to say a huge thanks to the voluntary fire brigade from Kingsbridge who, on two occasions, cheerfully came and did a fantastic job, really putting our minds to rest.”

A spokesman for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: “A crew from Kingsbridge were mobilised following a call from staff at the pub reporting a chimney fire. “Shortly after arriving crews extinguished the fire from the hearth using chimney gear and a thermal imaging camera. Once the area was made safe and safety advice given, duty of care was left with staff.”