Dramatic videos obtained by The Northern Echo show a raging fire at a Sunderland pub - which saw the venue sustain significant damage to its top floor.  

The Travellers Rest in Houghton-le-Spring, reportedly caught fire late on Saturday night (March 25), with flames being visible from streets away. 

The incident, which was captured on video by shocked passers-by, happened on Mill Pit, Shiney Row, in Houghton-le-Spring. 

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The fire service and police were soon on the scene to tackle the fire as it raged through the pub.

It is believed that the pub was disused at the time of the fire - and it is not certain how last night's fire was started. 

Today, pictures have shown the devastating aftermath of the fire, and an eyewitness from the scene said that a police car is in attendance. 

Read more: Chilton pub and hotel in Houghton-le-Spring on fire as smoke can be seen for miles

Footage from the scene shows billowing smoke and leaping flames issuing from the pub's roof.

The Northern Echo has contacted Tyne and Wear Fire Service for a comment on the incident.

The Northern Echo: Police were still in attendance at the scene of the fire this afternoon. Police were still in attendance at the scene of the fire this afternoon. (Image: Stuart Bolton)