Police reveal a man has been arrested in connection with a fire at The John Bull Chophouse

In the early hours of this morning the popular pub became engulfed in flames, which left the grade II-listed building with serious damage.

Now, a man has been arrested in connection with the incident.

A police spokesman said: “Officers responded to reports of a fire at a business property on Coopers Row, Wigan at around 4am this morning.

“Thankfully, no injuries were sustained. One man, aged 44, has been arrested on suspicion of arson, burglary and possession of class A drugs.

"He remains in custody for questioning. Enquiries are ongoing.”

A post on the pub’s Facebook page said: “We're gutted to let you all know that the John Bull Chop House suffered a fire early this morning. As you can imagine, we're totally lost for words.

“We want to thank all of our loyal customers and the people of Wigan for your support – we will recover from this, and we'll be back pouring your favourite ales before we know it.

“Special thanks to Wigan Central Watch, Greater Manchester Fire Service and GMP.

“Be back soon, Vic, Pete and all the staff.

"Long live the John Bull!”

A spokesperson from Thwaites, which owns The John Bull Chophouse, said: “Fire services were called to a blaze at The John Bull Chophouse in Wigan in the early hours of the morning. While a cause has yet to be confirmed, the fire is now contained, with everyone safe and no injuries reported.

“We’re working closely with the fire and police services to assist with the ongoing investigation, as well as with Pete and Vicky – our tenants at the pub – to offer our full support.

“Whilst it’s very early days, The John Bull Chophouse is a much-loved pub in the local community and it’s very much our intention to restore the pub back to its former glory.”

Many Wiganers have expressed their sadness and upset surrounding the incident and are hopeful for the pub’s return.

More than £900 has now been donated to a fund-raising appeal launched here after the blaze.