A local campaign group are celebrating after an enforcement notice was issued against the owners of the Crooked House pub requiring it to be rebuilt exactly as it was before it was knocked down.

The Crooked House in Himley caught fire last August and was unlawfully demolished shortly afterwards, prompting protests from the local community.

Today, West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street, has said that the landmark will be rebuilt exactly as it was before. Posting on social media, he said:

"An enforcement notice has been issued against the owners [of the land] for its unlawful demolition.

"They have been ordered to rebuild the pub back to what it was before the fire - just as we’ve been lobbying for. Fantastic work from [South Staffordshire Council]."

More than 35,000 people have signed a petition to see the pub rebuilt brick by brick and support has come from local politicians including Dudley North MP, Marco Longhi and South Staffordshire MP, Gavin Williamson who have fought for a law to protect heritage pubs. Marco said:

"This is an act of commitment from the community, very publicly, where we are renewing our vows to see the Crooked House rebuilt brick by brick.

"That’s what the community wants and that’s what we are pursuing." The 18th century pub was known for its sloping walls and floor, caused by mining subsidence in the area.

Five men and one woman were arrested in connection with the fire and remain on bail following the fire last year. A spokesperson for South Staffordshire Council has been approached for comment on the enforcement notice.