Blaze rips through Glasgow bars

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An investigation has been launched after a major fire "severely damaged" three bars and a restaurant in Glasgow's West End.

The blaze broke out at midday in Ashton Lane and, at its height, 45 firefighters battled to control it.

No-one was injured but the cobbled street, a popular nightspot in the city's university area, was evacuated and partially closed.

Police said it is too early to say if the fire was suspicious.

Strathclyde Fire and Rescue Service said the Cul de Sac restaurant and nearby bars - The Loft, Nude and Radio - had been "severely damaged" by the fire.

It took more than three hours to put out the fire, which started in the ground-floor kitchen of one of the premises.

The fire quickly spread, causing the roof in The Loft bar to partially collapse.

Divisional commander Paul Stewart said: "Because these are old buildings with voids and cavities the fire spread through a number of them.

"I would imagine these properties would be closed until such time as they can refurbish."

A joint investigation is being carried out by Strathclyde Fire and Rescue Service and Strathclyde Police.