Arson attack at a farm

The police are investigating an arson attack at a commercial premises in Ballyclare, County Antrim. The fire, at Clare Farm Supplies in the Park Street area, was reported shortly after 0330 GMT on Thursday. Around 40 firefighters went to the scene, and the fire has now been put out.

There was no-one in the building at the time, but the property has been badly damaged. The police said Park Street is closed between Main Street and Grange Street. BBC Northern Ireland reporter Kerry Thompson went to the scene.

"Its been quite a big operation involving over 40 firefighters from various areas including Antrim, Glengormley, and Lisburn as well as here in Ballyclare. "Because of the high winds this has made it a very difficult operation. There was concern because of the closeness of other commercial premises - especially a car show room - that this fire would spread quickly. It's been quite hazardous."