Ten fire appliances were called to the Bickford Arms at Brandis Corner, just outside Holsworthy.

The fire is thought to have started shortly after a wood burner was lit on Friday morning.

No one is reported to have been injured during the incident.

Fire crews salvaged some items from the pub

Nigel Kivell and his partner, Rowena, both from the Holsworthy area, took over the pub in October.

Mr Kivell lit a log burner just after 0800 GMT and it is believed sparks from the chimney set fire to the thatched roof.

A passer-by raised the alarm at about 0900 GMT.

Although firefighters were quickly on the scene, the roof and most of the first floor were totally destroyed.

However, the first crews were able to salvage some belongings from the ground the floor.

Divisional Officer Trevor Shaddick of Devon Fire and Rescue Service said: "Fire spread rapidly across the roof.

"At one point, we had to evacuate the firefighters because the roof started to collapse."

Once they are sure the fire is out, the main task for fire crews will be to make sure the building is safe.