A fire has gutted a landmark Belfast building in a blaze that sent dark smoke billowing over the Northern Ireland capital. The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service says it was called today morning to a blaze at the Bank Buildings, home to clothing retailer Primark.

Flames engulfed the roof of the structure, destroying the rooftop clock, before spreading through the five-story building. Primark says shoppers and staff were evacuated safely, and police cordoned off the area as debris fell from the building.