A 44-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson after a fire at the historic John Bull Chophouse pub in Wigan town centre.
Emergency services were called to the scene on Coopers Row at around 4am on Tuesday, August 4. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said four fire engines from Wigan, Atherton and Leigh fire stations attended the incident.A GMFRS spokesperson said: “Crews arrived quickly and used breathing apparatus, three hose reels, one hose reel jet and other specialist equipment to extinguish the fire.”
Greater Manchester Police confirmed that no one was injured in the incident, but did confirm a 44 year old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson, burglary and possession of Class A drugs. He remains in custody for questioning.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, landlords Vic and Pete thanked the emergency services and the local community for the support they have already received.
They 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!”
The John Bull Chop House is owned by Thwaites Brewery, which has vowed to restore the historic town centre pub.
A spokesperson for Thwaites said: “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 Chop House 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.”
The John Bull isn’t just another pub, it’s one of Wigan’s true institutions. Housed in one of the town’s oldest surviving buildings, dating back more than 300 years, it’s been serving generations of locals for more than 50 years, and has become famous for its traditional atmosphere, cracking selection of cask ales and what many would argue is the best jukebox in Wigan.
Its place at the heart of the town was underlined earlier this summer when Wigan Athletic chose the John Bull as the venue to launch the club’s new home kit, a fitting backdrop for one of the borough’s most recognisable pubs.
So many memories at the John Bull for so many people. Here’s hoping the damage isn’t as bad as first feared and that Vic, Pete and the team are back behind the bar before too long.
Long live the John Bull.
