It’s been reported that the blaze, which was first reported to emergency services in the early hours of this morning (11 September), is likely to have been deliberate.

Cllr Roofe has said: “This is a shocking and incredibly saddening incident.

“The Railway Hotel is an iconic establishment in the local community here. Their Sunday roasts were a staple for my family and many others, and its absence has been starkly felt on Forthill. That it could have been purposefully attacked is absolutely disgraceful, and I would encourage anyone with any information that may be useful to the police in their investigations to please get in touch or report it anonymously.

“I want to extend my thanks as well to the NIFRS for all their hard work as they continue working to contain the blaze, and I sincerely hope adjacent businesses remain unaffected.

“I would also stress that people stay well clear of Forthill Street and the surrounding area as emergency services remain on-scene, and plan alternative routes for their journeys.”