FIRE raged through Taunton's Ring of Bells pub on Saturday night (January 17).

The first floor and roof of the recently refurbished St James Street premises were severely damaged in the blaze, which was spotted at around 7.30pm.

Firefighters from Taunton, Wellington, Wiveliscombe, Bridgwater and Yeovil fought for almost three hours to bring the smoke and flames under control.

A hydraulic platform and three fire engines remained at the scene overnight, damping down hotspots.

The cause of the fire is still being investigated.

For the full dramatic story and pictures see Friday's County Gazette.