The 16th century former coaching inn, which is a popular wedding venue, has been largely destroyed in a fire that broke out on Friday evening. 

The sight of the charred roof, smashed windows and smouldering bricks has prompted sadness from Stokenchurch residents and businesses, regular hotel visitors and those who attended weddings there. 

Steve Jackson said on Twitter: "So sad, was there a few weeks back for my son's wedding, was a great day." 

Gina Flavelle said: "The icon of Stokenchurch, so sad to see this." 

Michael Bolton said: "This is very sad to see, I was the marketing manager for the hotel in the late 90s after it was refurbished and opened as The Kings Arms hotel owned by Sarova Hotels." 

Gerard Barry said it was "terrible news". 

Andy, another Twitter user, said: "Sad day - the historic Kings Hotel in my hometown of Stokenchurch, England, caught fire last night and is severely damaged (and still burning). I hope it's somewhat salvageable but it's not looking good."

Local business Hire Heaven said on Facebook: "Very sad to wake up to see that the Kings Hotel in Stokenchurch has burnt down over night after a fire which started in their kitchen.

"Thinking of everyone involved and hope that everyone got out safely. Such a lovely wedding venue with so much history."

Staff at The Crown in Chinnor wrote: "Our thoughts and prayers are with all the staff and people from The Kings Hotel and Stokenchurch as a fire ripped through the venue last night. Absolutely devastating. If there’s anything we can do, please shout."

Stokenchurch Dog Rescue wrote: "Thoughts are with all involved with the fire at the Kings Arms and we hope everyone is safe."

Photo by Douglas Tucker

On the Bucks Free Press Facebook page, a number of readers shared their sadness. 

Katie Elkins wrote: "So heartbreaking, iconic building." 

Paying tribute to the hard work of local cafe Coffee on The Green, who worked through the night to offer coffees and their bathroom to emergency service members, Trevor Cooke, wrote: "Devastating to see these pics. Great effort from coffee on the green cafe.

"I’ll definitely drop in for coffee and cake next time I’m over from Oz. Good luck for the days ahead."

Karen O'Rourke Gillett added: "True community spirit shown last night and today."