Councillors speak of their sadness following fire at landmark Tilbury pub

Local politicians have responded following the fire which destroyed the World's End pub in Tilbury yesterday.

Cllr Russell Cherry, Cabinet Member for Veterans, Enforcement and Environment, said: "Thurrock has an incredible heritage and the World's End is an important part of that, so I was terribly sorry to learn of the fire which has all but destroyed it.

"Only last week we launched the borough's heritage trails, with the World's End being one of the sites that people could see. It is a clear and tangible connection to Tilbury's rich naval history.

"It has been frequented by such luminaries as Daniel Defoe, author of Robinson Crusoe and Moll Flanders, and was visited by Samuel Pepys, who mentioned the visit in his diary.

"I would like to thank the fire crews who fought so hard and battled the fire so bravely. I understand that Essex County Fire and Rescue Service are investigating the cause of the blaze and that the police have made an arrest. I have reached out to both the police and fire services for more information.

"It is my sincere hope that the World's End pub will recover from this terrible fire and that a new pub will be built on this spot. It is not the first time fire has destroyed the building, yet the World's End has recovered, so it is my hope this will happen once more."

Cllr Bailey Scott, Tilbury St Chads ward councillor, said: "I'm deeply saddened to see the destruction of the historic World's End pub following yesterday's devastating fire. This Grade II listed building has stood for centuries and holds generations of memories for the people of Tilbury. To see such an important part of our town's history and heritage lost is truly heart-breaking.

"My sincere thanks go to Essex County Fire and Rescue Service and all emergency services involved for their incredible efforts in tackling such a challenging fire. I'm also grateful to the Port of Tilbury Police for their swift response and assistance in keeping the public safe.

"Now is a time to cherish the memories made at the World's End with family and friends and remember the special place it held in our community. We await further updates from the relevant authorities as investigations continue."