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Baku, October 29, AZERTAC
A fire in Exeter has destroyed historic buildings including what is described as the oldest hotel in England, according to BBC.
The fire began at around 05:00 BST in buildings on Cathedral Green in Devon and spread to the Royal Clarence Hotel, which dates back to 1769.
Guests have described being evacuated from the building, which dates back to 1769, amid flames, ash and debris.
Historian Dr Todd Gray said the Royal Clarence was the first venue in England to call itself a hotel.
Drone footage released by police has revealed the level of devastation.
South West Water has asked city centre residents to restrict water use and promised to supply bottled water for people struggling to get water from taps.
Cathedral Green was the medieval hub of the city. It's not only where the church was concentrated, but it was the business hub of the city from the 15th to 18th centuries. This is where all the trade took place, this is where you did your business deals.
It was also where the anti slavery people met in the 1700s and 1800s, where they planned abolition.
Beatrix Potter came here in 1892 and looked out and said 'what a fine view this is'. It was the place to be.
But the hotel had a murkier past later on when it was where the fascists met in the 1930s.
AZERTAG.AZ :Exeter fire wrecks 'oldest hotel in England'
