Two men have been attacked and tied up in a pub in County Down, before the building was set alight.

McCoy’s Bar on Kilmorey Street in Newry was the site of the attack, which occurred at around 00:35 on Monday morning.

According to reports, two men burst through the doors of the bar, tied up two staff members in the back yard and then proceeded to set fire to the premises.

Reports have also suggested the staff, both men, were badly beaten.

Firefighters rescued the men, who have been treated in hospital. The fire, which was attended by 60 fire officers and 12 appliances, is now extinguished.

Fire and Rescue Service Group Commander for the area Randy McComb told the BBC:

"When the first crews arrived on the scene they attempted to gain access to the front of the building. Then they heard shouts coming from the rear of the premises.

"A crew went round the back and using a short extension ladder they rescued two casualties from the rear of the premises which was heavily smoke-logged."

Mr McComb said: "The crews worked valiantly throughout the night."

He told the BBC: "Their main objective was to prevent it spreading to adjoining premises. Unfortunately... the fire was so intense, and spread so rapidly, that it was difficult to save the building."

Kilmorey Street has now opened.

Drivers of HGVs and those travelling to Warrenpoint harbour are advised to avoid the area and take an alternative route via Mayobridge, Hilltown or Rostrevor.

(IT)