A FIRE ripped through a bar in Gravesend early today destroying the premises only two weeks after they were re-opened following an £80,000 refurbishment.

Teezers Lounge Bar, in the High Street, was gutted by the blaze which was reported shortly after 7am. Flames engulfed the main entrance and exploded on to the street.

The flames quickly climbed the interior of the four-storey building. Firefighters, who had arrived within minutes were initially concerned that residents were still in a top-floor flat.

Six appliances, one height vehicle and 40 firefighters from Thameside, Dartford, Strood, Swanscombe and Medway stations, fought to bring the flames under control.

Watch Commander Paul Wright, of Thameside station, said fears of casualties soon eased but the structure of the building made it a difficult fight.

The cause of the blaze is being investiagted.