A Bishop Auckland high street unit set to be opened as a restaurant in the near future by a former MasterChef contestant has been struck by a fire, leaving him "heartbroken".

Mike Bartley, 37, who appeared on hit cooking reality show, MasterChef in 2021, took to social media this evening (October 2) to express his devastation at the fire at his Newgate Street site which broke out just after 6pm.

Multiple firefighters have been pictured at the building this evening - but the cause of the fire remains unknown.

Fire on Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland.Fire on Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland. (Image: INCIDENTS ON TEESSIDE & COUNTY DURHAM) Last year it was hoped that Mr Bartley would open his 'Jord' restaurant in 2024 following a Kickstarter campaign that raised thousands to make his dream a reality.

In an emotional video online, Mr Bartley assured his supporters that the restaurant will still be opening one way or another.

He said: "I've been made aware that there has been an incident at the premises that is going to be Restaurant Jord this evening. If you haven't already seen, there's been a fire.

"I've reached out to the landlord and at the moment I don't know the extent of the damage. Hopefully I'll find out soon and I'll be able to give a bigger update.

"It's pretty heartbreaking, however I am determined to get the restaurant open. I need t repay all the faith you have had in me.

Plans for the restaurant.Plans for the restaurant. (Image: Cellar Door Architecture) "The restaurant will open - I hope that it is going to be in that premises but if it has to be somewhere else, then its going to be somewhere else."

A County Durham & Darlington Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue received a call to a fire at a premises on Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland at 1814hrs.

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"Two appliances attended and on arrival the crews located a fire on the ground floor. This was extinguished using a hosereel and a fan was used to clear the building of smoke.

"We will be working with the police to assist in any investigation that may follow."

Durham Constabulary has been contacted for more information.