RECONSTRUCTION of a popular eatery destroyed by fire is now under way.

A blaze tore through the Miller & Carter Steakhouse in Wallisdown Road in April, collapsing the roof and gutting some sections.

Fire investigators have expressed confidence that the fire was accidental and originated in the staff quarters.

Scaffolding is now in place ready for the Poole pub's reconstruction to begin within the next few days. The entire edifice is due to be sheathed in plastic early next week.

Company bosses hope to have the work finished by Christmas.

No-one was injured in the afternoon blaze, with staff and customers evacuated safely. Onlookers said flames leapt up to 20ft into the air.