We’ll be back, and better!

The owner of the Indian restaurant whose kitchen was destroyed by a Friday fire has vowed to bounce back, and promises to make it even better than before.

Match Rahman runs the Raj, which is part of the Cock Hotel in Forden that was extensively damaged by the blaze that was triggered by electrical fault in an extractor fan in the kitchen.

Firefighters from four stations were on site for over four hours, and police diverted traffic, but this morning the clean-up begins.

“Although the fire has caused significant damage to the kitchen, no-one was injured or hurt which is the most important thing,” said Mr Rahman.

“Since we have been here, we have had nothing but continuous support from the community and beyond. Businesses such as ours not only brings people together but merges so many new friendships which we have benefited from. 

“So, although everyone knows how distressed I will be by not being able to open, it gives me time to revamp our menu, create new dishes and challenge myself to improve the Raj.

“We will obviously look to be up and running as soon as possible, and I will keep everyone updated. I apologise if we were in your plans in the days or weeks ahead and you have reserved a table, hopefully we will be in your plans for the future.” 

The emergency call first came in at 5.59am with the last firefighters leaving the site by 10.30am.