Historic Goring pub damaged in fire
The Miller of Mansfield was once a favourite with local resident George Michael.
A well-known 18th century pub in the heart of picturesque Goring-on-Thames has been badly damaged by fire.
The fire broke out early on Sunday morning at the pub which is also a restaurant and hotel. Proprietor Mary Galer was there with her two children and along with fifteen other staff and guests safely evacuated.
She says if it wasn't for the swift response of the fire service the building would have been lost.
"They (the fire service) said if it had been five minutes more then the fire would have reached the roof and then it starts to go all the way along the roof and then from the top down and bring the building down. And then at that point it hit home of the severity that could have occurred had the fire brigade not got here in time"
The fire has left the business without hot water and with five 'live-in' staff without accommodation. She says local hotels 'The Bull' and 'The Swan' have kindly helped out, and she praised the village community for rallying round with offers of help
"Everything from cups of tea, beds, bacon sandwiches, you know just everything has been offered. Everyone's pulled together everyone has been amazing. We've had endless messages, phones calls and social media messages to wish us well and a safe return"
Mary - who runs the business with her husband Nick - say they hope to open again in two weeks time and be ready for the Christmas season.
The pub was a favourite with global superstar George Michael - who lived nearby - he would often sit quietly in a corner of the bar. George passed away on Christmas Day four years ago at his home in the village.