13 April 2012

Newspaper Offices Damaged In Fire

Offices belonging to County Antrim newspaper, The Larne Times, have been badly damaged in a fire.

The blaze broke out on the first floor of the mid-terrace building at Point Street, Larne, at around 11.30pm last night.

The newspaper's Larne office contains advertising and editorial departments. Printing is carried out in separate premises.

Police have confirmed that the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Meanwhile Alliance Larne Councillor John Mathews has expressed his shock at the fire.

Cllr Matthews said: "Our local newspapers are incredibly valuable to community life and I know that many, like myself, will be shocked by this fire.

"If this does turn out to be arson then it was a despicable act. An attack on the press is an attack on democracy and free speech.

"My thoughts go out to the staff at the Larne Times, whose work is invaluable to the area. I am certain that they will be stronger and better once they get up and running again. Local Alliance representatives will do everything we can to assist staff to get their office back up and running again.

"I appeal to anyone with any information about this fire to contact the police."

(LB)