Engineers battled to save a historic pub from collapse after a car smashed into its front.

The 14th Century Smugglers Inn at Alfriston, near Polegate, was threatened with demolition following the crash yesterday.

Maureen Scott, the landlady of 27 years, and her husband Robbie were inside when the accident happened at 3am.

They were unhurt but severely shaken.

Mrs Scott's daughter Dr Sharon Ney, 38, said: "Neither my mum nor Robbie heard the crash.

"The first thing they knew about it was when a fireman opened the door and told them they had to get out because the building could be about to collapse. It was terrifying.

"If it had happened earlier, the carnage it would have caused doesn't bear thinking about.

"I burst into tears as soon as I saw what had happened. But we won't quit and the villagers have been wonderful."

A team of structural engineers, surveyors and archaeologists worked late into the night trying to salvage what was left of the building in the High Street.

Dr Ney said: "It's touch and go. The main beam that holds up the corner of the house has slipped out of place so the ceilings are starting to drop.

"If they can fix the beam, we'll be okay."

The pub dates back to 1358 and was once owned by notorious Sussex smuggler Stanton Collins.

Its underground tunnels and secret hiding places were used to conceal contraband.

Now, it is claimed, the world's smallest restaurant is in the rear of the building.

Barbara Rapson, owner of Alfriston Village Stores next door, was awake when the accident happened.

Mrs Rapson said: "I heard brakes and a big bang and a scream. When I looked out I saw a car in the pub.

"It reversed out and drove up West Street. I think the driver just lost control."

Police are hunting the driver of the car, who sped away from the scene, and are questioning someone in connection with the crash.