Fire has destroyed a popular bar and eatery in Newcastle West.
Firefighters from across the city were called to The Edwards on Parry Street just after midnight to find the building well alight with flames through the roof.
Staff had only just closed up for the night about half an hour before the fire started.
Around 30 firefighters and two aerial appliances were called to the fire - crews initially tried to attack the blaze internally but had to withdraw when the roof collapsed.
Newcastle Fire Command says 70 percent of the building was damaged by fire, the rest of the structure was damaged by heat, smoke and water
An adjoining laundromat also sustained minor fire damage.
Fire investigators will arrive this morning to pinpoint the cause of the blaze, which is believed to have started in the kitchen.
The Edwards has only been open for four years and is owned by Silverchair bassist, Chris Joannou and his business partner, Chris Johnston.
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| The Edwards Bar Ablaze in Newcastle West Picture: theherald.com.au |
