Weddings hit by Elm Farm Country House fire near Norwich

Neighbours in Horsham St Faith say they heard two loud "explosions" on Sunday afternoon at Elm Farm Country House, where eight fire crews were called to a blaze in its roof.

Those living in Norwich Road, where the hotel is located, said the road was closed for hours from about 3pm, with the smell of smoke still wafting across the village this morning.

One neighbour, who did not wish to be named, said the village was illuminated with blue lights following the incident.

Norwich Road, which was closed for hours following the incident (Image: Newsquest)

He said: "They closed nearly all of Norwich Road off and we had blue lights coming and going all day.

"The first we knew of it was when we heard two loud explosions one after another.

"I think it was gas canisters going up, it didn't sound good.

"I hope they're all okay."

The gutted roof of Elm Farm Country House (Image: Newsquest)

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Couples say their wedding plans have now been left in tatters due to the blaze, but also expressed their sympathy for the venue.

Kelly Sterman and her husband-to-be George Goulty, were set to marry at the hotel on September 9, but say they have been left in the dark with less than a month to go until the big day and about £9,000 spent on the venue and related costs in limbo.

Ms Sterman said: "We're devastated to be honest.

Kelly Steerman and George Gouldy who were due to get married at the hotel early next month (Image: Kelly Steerman)

"I feel for them, it's an awful incident and I hope everyone is okay, but they really need to think about the fact they've taken money from people who now need that back to go elsewhere.

"There's no time left, at the moment it's costing us more as time goes on as we'll have to book later.

"We're a family of six so nothing is cheap and costs are going up for everything.

The blaze at Elm Farm County House (Image: Thomas Dack)

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"It's just a horrible situation for them and us."

Management of the venue had offered 'profuse apologies' in March as it announced a closure between April 24 and July 16 due to a major structural fault, which saw bookings cancelled.

The entrance to Elm Farm Country Park this morning (Image: Newsquest)

Another bride-to-be, Paige Littleboy, said she is concerned following the fire despite her marriage being pencilled in for 2024.

She said: "It's a heartbreaking situation for all involved, the main thing is everyone involved is safe."

Following the incident, the Oaklands Hotel in Norwich's Yarmouth Road has announced it will try to assist those who may lose out as a result of the fire.

Couples who have booked for Elm Farm Country House say their plans are in tatters (Image: Newsquest)

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A statement from the hotel read: "We're sending our warmest wishes to the team and all those affected by the awful scenes at one of our much loved fellow hospitality venues in Norwich."

Those requiring assistance can email weddings@oaklands-hotel.co.uk.

Elm Farm Country House has been contacted for comment.