A HOLY document that is central to a religion narrowly escaped destruction in a devastating temple fire.

The blaze started at about 8.45pm on Thursday, at the Sikh temple on Lorne Street, Newport, Middlesbrough.

It quickly took hold, spreading easily among fine lace and delicate fabrics laid out on the temple's altars.

One of the most devastating losses to those who worship there, was the destruction of holy books by the fire, which damaged half of the building's first floor.

Kimat Singh, the temple's secretary, said it was only by chance that the most important book, the Guru Granth Sahib, was not among them.

"We are greatly relieved, as our bible is our most valuable possession," he said.

Fire officers were investigating the cause of the fire yesterday, although they are not treating it as suspicious.