A fire has broken out at a prestigious hotel in Abergavenny as many patrons were enjoying their lunch.

The chimney blaze, which started around lunchtime today, forced the building to be evacuated, with staff and guests crowded outside the front and back of the hotel.

Two fire engines are present, with fire crews currently at both sides of the hotel, whilst three firefighters are on the rooftop dealing with the blaze.

A fireman at the scene said it could take at least two hours to deal with.

UPDATE: A spokeswoman for South Wales Fire and Rescue confirmed the blaze was extinguished at 1pm today.