Fire Severely Damages Harry Potter Filming Pub in Devon

The Cleave Inn, a village pub in Lustleigh, Devon, used as a filming location for the new Harry Potter HBO series, suffered severe damage due to a fire in its storeroom. The fire, reported in the early hours of October 19, prompted a major emergency response involving eight fire engines, an aerial ladder platform, and a water bowser, although the pub's thatch roof was fortunately not affected. The pub, which had been closed for filming earlier in the week, will remain closed for a few days to clean up and restock, with the owner Luke Smith expressing commitment to reopening as soon as possible. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and the swift response of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue prevented further damage and ensured everyone's safety. The village had recently celebrated the arrival of the Harry Potter film crew, which had also helped improve local road conditions. Despite early speculation, the pub has stated it will take a few days to determine the fire's cause.