A Shrewsbury heating systems firm whose showroom was destroyed by fire is hoping to reopen by next summer.

Mullins Heating in Wenlock Road suffered thousands of pounds of damage when its roof caught fire in May, with about 50 firefighters called out to tackle the huge blaze. The business is preparing to relocate to the Sweetlake Business Village while refurbishment work takes place.

It was previously based at a temporary office at the site of the showroom.

Owner Richard Mullins said he is hoping to get the showroom open in the near future following a ‘challenging year’ for the business.

“I cannot give an exact date for the showroom reopening but I would expect it to be within the next six to eight months,” he said.

“We have obviously had a challenging year following the fire at the showroom, but our staff have shown great loyalty, resilience and drive in getting the business back on its feet.

“From the day of the fire onwards we have continued to provide our customers with high standards of service and shall strive to continue to do this.

“We are currently located at a temporary office at the site of our showroom. The showroom has been cleared ready for its refurbishment over the next few months,” he said.

Mr Mullins added that despite the difficulties caused by the fire, the business had had a good 2011.

“In the current economic climate we have been pleased with our progress this year and would expect to see a continued improvement throughout the new year,” he said.

“We are currently looking into expansion into the renewables market on the heating side while sales of boilers have been particularly strong this year driven by high fuel prices.

“The continued sales of fireplaces and stoves in the refurbished showroom when complete will ensure our growth, all in all a bright future after such a challenging time earlier in the year,” added Mr Mullins.

Nobody was hurt during the huge fire in May, but London Road and Wenlock Road had to be cordoned off while firefighters dealt with the blaze.

About 50 people had to be evacuated from the neighbouring White Horse pub, along with residents from 10 nearby houses.