Lawyers have expressed their sadness at a much-loved former office in a historic building being destroyed by fire. The Bury in Chesham, Buckinghamshire, was the scene of a huge blaze on Wednesday night, with reports that the 18th century building has been gutted.

The site was empty but had been home to south east practice IBB Law until 2024 when the firm moved to another office in Beaconsfield. The business was bought last year by Knights in a deal worth up to £30m.

Former IBB staff posting on Linkedin said the news was ‘heartbreaking’ for those who used to work in the building.

Catherine O’Reilly, who spent 13 years with the firm, said: ‘I have so many fond memories of working there (no matter how cold it got in winter or hot in summer!) ‘It’s been part of Chesham history for such a long time and there were so many memories in its beautiful walls. I really hope no one was hurt and that in time it can be restored to its former glory.’

Her former colleague Andrew Whiteaker said: ‘That’s awful news. Have fond memories of getting lost in the rabbit warren of offices and watching the muntjac in the gardens.’

Senior associate Laura Thompson added: 'What sad, sad news, The Bury was a beautiful building and one of the best places I’ve worked

The group Chesham Heritage said it was a ‘terribly sad day’ for the firm and praised the fire service for saving the structure from complete destruction.

The Grade II-listed site dated from 1716 and was built for William Lowndes, secretary to the Treasury in the reign of Queen Anne.