A POPULAR restaurant devastated by a fire earlier this year has reopened.

Miller & Carter Steakhouse, Wallisdown Road, Poole, was severely damaged in April.

No-one was injured in the blaze, but the roof collapsed and sections of building were completely gutted.

Guests had to be evacuated and shocked onlookers reported flames leaping up to 20ft into the air. The fire, which originated in the staff quarters, was later deemed accidental by investigators.

New manager Andy Wells told the Daily Echo: “I am just so proud to have got Miller & Carter Poole back to where it belongs.”

Meanwhile, the restaurant’s regional business manager John Crayford said: “Following the unfortunate fire that forced the restaurant to close earlier this year, we are looking forward to welcoming visitors new and old to our brand-new Miller & Carter Poole.

“We can’t believe the amount of support we received from the local community these last few months, and we would like to thank everyone for their patience during the rebuilding process.

“We are so excited to reopen our doors and welcome guests who have dined with us before and new guests.”

The refurbishment, which finally got underway in October, included rebuilding the pitched roof and adding some modifications, including a new entrance lobby and overhead canopy.

Fourteen fire crews, including the aerial ladder, tackled the blaze. They managed to stop it destroying the entire building but the roof was beyond repair.

Miller & Carter Poole is now seeking to recruit 50 new staff members for its kitchen and front of house teams, as well as ‘budding bartenders’.

John said: “We want team members to deliver a fantastic experience for every guest that walks through our doors."

To apply for a role at Miller & Carter Poole contact general manager Andy Wells on 07806 742451.