Investigators say they can’t establish the cause of a raging fire which “destroyed” a derelict Worcester Park pub because the damage was so bad.

The London Fire Brigade said that, since the damage caused by the blaze to the Worcester Park Tavern was so severe, its explanation will remain “unknown”.

Splendid Hospitality Group, who own the old boozer in Park Terrace, said they were “devastated” after firefighters were called at 5.15am on Tuesday (February 4).

The building, broken into by a group of travellers just days before, had to be partially demolished so firefighters could properly tackle the blaze and again later to safeguard the chimney stacks.

READ: Worcester Park Tavern owners 'devastated' after huge fire

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Images and video footage show crews from New Malden, Surbiton and Sutton stations at the scene of the incident as smoke plumes filled the grey morning sky.

Firefighters were on the scene for several hours before the situation was deemed under control shortly after 8am later that morning.

Splendid Hospitality Group said the works were done under supervision from building control and, because it’s near to Doris Venner Pre-School, “public safety was a priority”.

Despite impending plans to convert the Worcester Park Tavern into 132-bed hotel, a spokeswoman for the owners said no developments will commence without Kingston Council’s consent.

There were no reports of any injuries, according to the London Fire Brigade.

Up until the fire, Splendid Hospitality Group installed permanent security staff and “made the site safe” following the break-in by travellers last week.

Residents and eyewitnesses claimed to spot caravans arriving at the Worcester Park Tavern arriving on site after the group gained access before police were called to the scene.

But bailiffs soon stepped in to evict the trespassers.

READ: Firefighters tackle derelict Worcester Park pub fire - live updates

The news of the fire comes as the old pub’s owners prepare to submit plans for the new hotel to Kingston Council following several years of “working to agree to a solution”.

When the proposals will be submitted remain unclear at this stage.

Splendid Hospitality Group has been approached for further comment.