Probe into pub blaze

Belmont Bar was badly damaged by the fire

The police are investigating the cause of a fire at an east Belfast pub.

The lounge area of the Belmont Bar on the Upper Newtownards Road was extensively damaged in the blaze.

The fire was discovered just after 0400 BST on Sunday morning.

Manager of the bar Paul Ely said the damage to the bar was considerable.

He said: "It is very extensive to everything really, seats, flooring and furniture.

"There is a lot of water damage, as well, from the fire brigade trying to put the fire out.

"It is going to mean the bar is closed for a considerable period of time."

Police are appealing for information and they want a male caller who reported the fire to contact them.