A fire which broke out at a pub in North Lanarkshire was started deliberately.

The blaze at The Corner Room, formerly the Barnyard Pub, in Coatbridge was reported at 4.15am on Friday.

Fire and rescue teams battled for an hour to extinguish the ground floor fire, at Wallace Street, which spread to the first floor flat above.

Dundyvan Road was partially blocked in both directions and a number of diversions continue to operate in the area.

PC David Cumming, of Coatbridge Police, said: "We believe the fire was started deliberately.

"I would appeal for any witnesses to the incident to come forward. Enquiries are ongoing."

Anyone with information should contact Coatbridge Police on 01236 502009.