AN HISTORIC inn that dates back to the 12th century has been completely gutted by a devastating fire.

Six fire engines were sent to Rhiw Goch Inn located on the outskirts of Trawsfynydd, just after midnight on Sunday, 14 October.

A joint investigation by North Wales Police and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is looking into the cause of the blaze, which is believed to have been accidental.

The Cambrian News understands 12 jobs have been lost as a result of the fire.

Local county councillor Elfed Roberts was particularly saddened by the building’s demise as he was married at the scenic venue.

“It’s a sad loss to a hub that was well liked by locals and visitors alike,” he said.

“We had our wedding party there when Frank Gavin used to run the place.

“It was the best of the best in the area.

“A tragic loss and a beautiful building with a wealth of history gone.”

Six fire-fighting appliances, two water bowsers and an aerial ladder platform were required to tackle the blaze over the course of 12 hours.

Group manager Kevin Jones, community safety manager for Conwy and Denbighshire said: “The cause of the fire, which destroyed 100 per cent of the historic building, is under investigation.

“Thankfully no-one was injured and the efforts of the firefighters in attendance prevented the fire spreading to the adjacent buildings.”

The property was originally built as a farmhouse in the 12th century and was the last public house in the village.

The inn was extended in 1610 and from the Boer War, through the two World Wars until 1954, served as an officer’s mess for the Royal Artillery.

See this week’s Meirionnydd edition, in shops and online now