Pictures show a fire that broke out at the site of a upcoming Bishop Auckland restaurant ran by a MasterChef star has left the building damaged.

Multiple firefighters were pictured outside the unit on Newgate Street in the town just after 6pm on Wednesday (October 2) which is in the process of being turned in to a new restaurant by former MasterChef star Mike Bartley.

The 37-year-old appeared on the hit cooking reality TV show in 2021 and announced that his new business named 'Jord' would be opening in 2024 following a crowdfunding effort.

(Image: NORTHERN ECHO) Pictures of the unit now show that windows have been smashed and parts of the foundations appear charred. The cause of the fire is unknown.

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.

"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."

(Image: INCIDENTS ON TEESSIDE & COUNTY DURHAM)

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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.

"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."