Investigations continue into cause of pub blaze

INVESTIGATIONS are continuing into the cause of a fire that destroyed the interior of a Brechin pub.

The Old Bolag in the town centre was devastated in the blaze, which took hold around 1.30am on Sunday.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland are carrying out a joint investigation.

Pub owner Kevin McDonald said he did not want to comment.

Caroline Stewart, who lives next door to The Old Bolag and had to be evacuated in the middle of the night, said she was still in shock. She said: “Although it was scary at the time, I have been lucky.

“Only my porch door window has been damaged after the fire service had to break in.

“I’m so sad for the owner. He’s such a good guy and this will be devastating for him.

“It’s also a shame for the man who lives next door, because it looks like his flat has been damaged too.

“I’m happy nobody has been hurt, of course — that is the main thing.”

It is believed staff and customers had already left the pub by the time the blaze took hold and firefighters battled for almost five hours to extinguish the flames.

Caroline praised the emergency services for what she described as a “fantastic” response.

An Angus Council spokesman said officers had been in attendance to ensure appropriate steps were taken to ensure the safety of the building.

Police have asked anyone with information that may help their investigation to call 101 or speak to any officer.