An investigation is underway following a blaze that destroyed an historic building in Co Antrim.
Firefighters were called to battle a blaze at derelict Steeple House, on Steeple Road, in Antrim at 5.30am on Tuesday morning, July 2.
The fire service confirmed there were between 15 to 18 firefighters on the scene as well as two officers to bring the blaze under control.
The building had once been home to the local council and current Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey , Alderman John Smyth said it was a "sad day".
In a statement, he added: "Early this morning we were made aware of a fire at the historic Steeple House, Antrim.
"As both Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey and as a resident of the nearby Steeple area, I’ve always been very proud of this building. As a serving Councillor of the legacy Antrim Borough Council, I have fond memories of many Council meetings held in the Chamber and offices there.
"This is a sad day and a great loss of an historic building and well known Antrim landmark."
Police had urged residents to close their windows while the blaze was being brought under control.
Local UUP councillor Leah Smyth said: "I'm shocked and saddened to see a building that I, like many others grew up around, in flames. It's a beautiful building that holds many memories for local people. It was about to be regenerated following recent decisions about its future."
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