The managing director of Bhaktivedanta Manor said the temple has reopened for worship after a devastating fire.

Gauri Das announced today the Hare Krishna Temple site near Aldenham would be open for congregations following the blaze at Goshala barn yesterday - but that the farm would remain closed until Monday.

The fire, believed to have begun at around 1pm, broke out when several bales of hay caught fire.

At least four fire engines were on the scene within minutes to battle the spreading flames and everyone was evacuated from the area. No one was injured, though some were checked by paramedics for smoke inhalation, and all the animals are safe.

The fire was eventually contained later that afternoon. The cause of the fire is still being investigated.

Speaking about the reopening of the temple, Gauri Das, said: “We are glad to announce that the temple is now open again for regular worship.

“The Goshala (farm) will remain closed until Monday. The hay barn has been completely destroyed and fire fighters are onsite as the last remains of the fire burn out.

"We are incredibly gratefully to the fire services for their speedy response and clear expertise and bravery in tackling the blaze. They have been both vigilant, courageous and extremely well mannered.

"We are also deeply grateful to an off-duty police officer and two other lads, one with an English three lions tattoo on his upper arm, for jumping into action with a ‘take charge’ attitude in clearing buildings and securing the site. They just happened to be visiting the farm and we do hope to track them down for an official community thank you.

"We have lost a barn to a fire. It is devastating, and we remain somewhat still in shock. However, we are full of thanks to Lord Krishna in our prayers that all are safe, and we will rebuild our barn."

In recent weeks, the manor hosted the annual Janmashtami festival.

Read the original story, here https://www.watfordobserver.co.uk/news/16894904.hay-fire-at-bhakdivedanta-manor-near-bushey/