RESTORATION work on an historic Pershore building gutted by fire is nearing completion.

Perrott House, a Grade I listed building, was reduced to a shell when fire ravaged it in January, 1999.

More than £500,000 damage was caused to the building but now it is nearly back to its former glory.

Scaffolding, which had been in place for more than three years, has been removed.

There are new oak beams inside the building and the second floor has been completely restored.

Perrott House is one of only two genuine Georgian structures in Pershore. It dates from 1760.

Councillors say it is welcoming to see the restoration nearing completion.

"I'm extremely pleased that the building looks its original self again," said Wychavon district councillor Shirley Newman.

The building's owner, retired magistrate Mike Ellingworth, and his wife Sue, were in their home when it caught fire.