THE CENTRE of Athlone ground to a halt yesterday as four units of the fire brigade spent several hours battling a fire which started in a pub before spreading to an auctioneers next door.
Gardaí said they were investigating the fire, which began in the basement of O’Neill’s Bar on Mardyke Street at about 2.30pm.
It soon spread to the adjoining Finlay Auctioneering premises as two Athlone fire brigades, along with other units from Ferbane and Kilbeggan, attended the scene.
Buildings nearby were evacuated and road closures were put in place at Mardyke Street, Seán Costello Street, Dublingate Street and Church Street.
The streets remained closed to traffic as the fire raged throughout the afternoon.
The interior and roof of O’Neill’s Bar were destroyed. The pub is in a historic building and faces on to St Mary’s Square. Finlay’s was also severely damaged, while adjoining buildings may also have been affected.
By 7pm the fire had been brought under control, according to a spokesman for Athlone fire brigade.
No injuries were reported as a result of the fire.
