The incident at the Old Swan Inn on the High Street was reported at 5.25pm yesterday (Tuesday) following concerns for the safety of a man in his fifties.

Just before 6pm, police officers noticed a fire inside the pub and a man was seen on the roof of the building.

Firefighters tackled the blaze while police officers tried to engage with the man in an effort to bring him to safety.

A few nearby properties were temporarily evacuated and residents were urged to close doors and windows due to thick black smoke.

The A65 was also closed, but reopened at around 3.30am on Wednesday morning.

Firefighters brought the man down from the roof of the pub at 6.38pm.

He was taken to hospital in a critical condition.

Neighbours were urged to evacuate their homes.

A police investigation has begun.

Witnesses or anyone with information that could help are asked to call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option one, and speak to the force control room.

Quote reference number 12200115385 when providing details.

Man in critical condition after major fire at pub in Gargrave, North Yorkshire