A pub says it has been forced to close for the day after an electrical fire in one of its storage sheds.

The Windmill Inn in Rustington was mobbed by fire crews this morning after smoke began to billow from the building.

Now the pub has confirmed that it will be forced to close for the day while the business deals with the aftermath of the blaze.

A spokesman for the pub said on social media that the fire started in a storage shed was caused by an electrical fault.

The pub said: "We can confirm that at the early hours of this morning we had a fire break out in one of our storage sheds.

"The fire brigade have been and the fire is now out, the investigator has confirmed that it was an electrical fire.

Fire crews at The Windmill Inn this morningFire crews at The Windmill Inn this morning (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

"We would like to thank all the first responders who came to our aid when we needed them the most. 

Read More: Fire crews tackle blaze at award winning pub

"A huge thank you to our friends and neighbours for your kindness and support. And thank you to all the locals who have posted kind words.

"Unfortunately, we won’t be open today as the damage is far worse than we initially thought."

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service were called to the fire at around 6.20am in Mill Lane, Rustington.

Eight fire engines and an aerial ladder were sent to the scene and left shortly after 9am.

The Windmill Inn describes itself as an award-winning "family-run free house" based just off the A259 in Rustington.