A Dumfries restaurant was evacuated on Saturday night when a fire broke out at the chippy next door.
Emergency services were called to Balmoral fish and chip shop after smoke was seen billowing from the upstairs windows which shattered in the blaze.
Bruno’s Restaurant next door was also forced to close.
Following the incident around 7pm, a spokesman for Bruno’s posted on social media: “Tonight we have sadly had to close the restaurant due to a severe fire in our family businesses affecting both the restaurant and chip shop properties.
“Thankfully everyone is safe, our utmost thanks goes to the fire service.
“Thank you to our customers and staff for their safe departure, cooperation and understanding, as well as well as our neighbours on Balmoral Road whilst Scottish Power restore electricity. We will unfortunately be closed until further notice to assess the damage and carry out works required.
“We currently do not have access to our phone line however we intend to contact our customers who are booked with us this week.
“Thank you for your support and understanding during this difficult time.”
One customer who was in the restaurant at the time said: “Staff were amazing tonight and got us out of the restaurant in such a calm and professional manner. Hopefully not too long until you can reopen.”
Another said: “So sorry to read about the fire and damage to two great local businesses. Relieved to hear that no one was hurt.
“We look forward to being able to support you when you reopen.”
Police closed access to Balmoral Road while firefighters dealt with the blaze.
Meanwhile, Dumfries Police are appealing for witnesses to a malicious fire at a play park in the town.
The fire service and cops attended the blaze at Lochside Road at about 3pm on Sunday but no one was hurt in the incident.
A police spokesman said: “On arrival the astro turf was well alight and was extinguished by the fire service. We are looking for anyone with any information about the fire, witnesses or those with dashcam (footage) to contact Dumfries Community Policing Unit on 101.”
A large portion of the artificial surface has been damaged.
