Restaurant closed after 'significant' fire damage

A bar and restaurant damaged in an early morning fire is likely to remain "closed throughout January", according to staff.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service said it sent three fire engines to the blaze at a property on Sondes Road, Deal, shortly before 06:00 GMT on New Year's Day.

The Court Yard confirmed on social media it was the affected business and the damage was "significant".

"Thankfully, no one was injured and everyone is safe," the venue said, but it would be "closed for the foreseeable future while assessments, investigations and repairs take place".

Firefighters said the fire's cause was not known. Crews stood down shortly after 07:30 on Thursday.

The Court Yard said it would contact customers with bookings.

Its statement read: "This is obviously a huge shock for all of us, but our immediate priority is the safety and wellbeing of our staff.

"We are working closely with the relevant authorities and our insurers and will keep you updated as we learn more.

"We would like to sincerely thank the emergency services for their swift response, and we're incredibly grateful for the messages of support already received."

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