almost two years after it was destroyed by fire, the George Hotel in Hatherleigh is preparing to re-open its doors to customers.

Although the date is yet to be confirmed, owners Scottish and Newcastle Pub Enterprises say it could be in the next few weeks.

The hotel was gutted by fire in December 23, 2008 — more than 100 firefighters from all over the area fought the blaze. It led to a ten-year jail sentence for the arsonist.

The £2.4-million rebuild sees the exterior looking very much as it was before the fire, including its traditional thatched roofing. But inside, the pub has been completely transformed.

Town councillor Denis Bater, who has had a glimpse of the interior, said: 'It's just fantastic inside and the front is almost the same. They have kept a lot of original features but have made it easier for staff as a working space, obviously for health and safety reasons. I'm looking forward to its re-opening.

Mr Bater hopes the hotel will be re-opened in time for Hatherleigh Carnival on November 13, or at least the bar open to the general public.

The pub is finalising details with a new licensee, who is yet to be named.