'A sense of loss': A town still in shock a year after Raven blaze

People in Droitwich have marked the one year anniversary of a fire that ripped through an historic hotel - and said the impact on the town has been "devastating".

In August last year, a blaze wrecked the Grade II listed Raven Hotel, with the derelict structure having to be fenced off on safety grounds.

People in the town told the BBC they were "dismayed" that the building was still in such a state.

Nicky Roberts, from the Raven Heartbeat Group, said: "Seeing it destroyed by fire was heartbreaking. A year on there is still a real sense of loss."

Wychavon District Council has released drone footage showing the extent of the damage, in an attempt to keep pressure on the site owners, Live Urban Two.

The company has repeatedly refused to comment to the BBC, but had complied with the first demand of a court order earlier this summer in seeking pre-application advice on a future planning application, for demolishing parts of the site.

Locals said they were "upset" at the lengthy wait for action, and told the BBC it was damaging the town.

Mandy Vaughan, a retired librarian, said: "Imagine coming to Droitwich for the first time and seeing that.

"It's just a mess. I can't imagine it gives anyone a good impression of the area - everyone wants to see it sorted out."

Meg Richards, a pensioner, said: "It's causing a great deal of distress in the town - it's still a loved building which holds so many memories for generations of families.

"It's just very, very sad. Nobody wants to see it like this."

Paul Collins, who works in IT, said he had lived in the town for more than 40 years.

"I'm just fed up of seeing it like this - I often walk past and think 'how much longer will it be left like that'," he said.

"If they [the owners] won't sort it out, I doubt it will survive another winter like the last one."

The Raven Heartbeat Group - campaigners made up of residents and traders - said it was still demanding answers.

In a statement, it said: "The Raven Hotel was much more than just a building - it was a place filled with memories for so many people.

"The anniversary is a chance to reflect on not only what we lost, but also the strength of the community that came afterwards.

"We hope the Raven's legacy continues to be recognised."

The Raven shut as a hotel more than 10 years ago, and was empty when the fire happened.

Live Urban Two did not respond to requests for comment.

Follow BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.