A fire that ripped through a disused factory in south Belfast was the worst in the city for years, experts said today.
More than 100 firefighters spent hours dealing with the blaze at a building once occupied by SOS office supplies on the corner of Boucher Road and Apollo Road.
Divisional Commander Chris Kerr
Divisional Commander Chris Kerr said thick black smoke could be seen across the city at the height of the fire last night.
"We had four specialist aerial appliances pouring thousands of gallons of water from the air and crews on all four sides surrounding the fire," he said. "The sheer scale, size and ferocity of the fire meant it was several hours before we could bring it under control.
"I think that was one of the largest fires any firefighter in Belfast has fought.
"It was across a major area as well as a very complex range of buildings, and certainly the biggest that's been seen in Belfast for many, many years."