[T]he Hartside Cafe has been gutted after a fire broke out today.

Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) were called at 2:23pm.

A spokesman for CFRS said: “Firefighters used two hose reel jets to tackle the fire and cooled LPG cylinders.

“The fire is now out, crews are damping down.

“The fire caused severe damage, the roof has totally collapsed.

“Three fire appliances are on scene from Alston, Brampton and Penrith.

“Penrith firefighters followed a snow plough to get access up the A686.

“A fire investigation is now underway.

“No one has been hurt.”

The Hartside Cafe situated on the A686 was a popular meeting place for cyclists on the C2C route and bikers who met up at weekends.

Rachel Forster who’s mother owns the cafe said: “We are all devastated! It’s been bad timing with the road being closed, they think it’s been burning since lunch time.

“It’s pretty much burnt to the ground!

“No one was hurt thankfully and we want to thank everyone for their support.”

Eden Building Control have attended the scene and are looking to meet with the owners tomorrow to discuss the way ahead.

The site has been cordoned off, for your own safety please keep out.