An investigation is underway after a vacant unit set to be developed in to a new restaurant by a MasterChef star went up in flames earlier this week.

Multiple firefighters were pictured on Newgate Street in Bishop Auckland earlier this week after a unit set to be developed into a restaurant by MasterChef star Mike Bartley suffered a fire.

The 37-year-old appeared on the cooking reality show in 2021 took to social media on Wednesday (October 2) to express his devastation at the fire which broke out out just after 6pm.

(Image: INCIDENTS ON TEESSIDE & COUNTY DURHAM) This comes after last year it was hoped that Mr Bartley would open the 'Jord' restaurant in 2024 following a Kickstarter campaign that raised thousands to make his dream a reality.

In a video posted online after the blaze 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.

(Image: NORTHERN ECHO) "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."

Now, police have confirmed that following a report of criminal damage, an investigation has been launched.

A Durham Constabulary spokesperson said: "Officers received a report of criminal damage at a disused address in Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland.

"An investigation is ongoing."

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A County Durham & Darlington Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson added: "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."