SIGNING-ON has been suspended for the 700 users of a job centre hit by fire.

Thousands of pounds worth of damage were caused in the fire, which ripped through the premises in Viceroy Street, Seaham, County Durham, in the early hours of Saturday.

Police and fire brigade experts have looked into the cause, but believe it was accidental, possibly caused by an electrical fault.

People due to sign on yesterday, were asked to use nearby premises at Caroline House, where many of the 25 staff have moved to.

Officials from the Department of Work and Pensions expect the centre to be out of use for some time while extensive repairs are made.

A spokesman for the department said: "The public and staff areas are pretty much completely wrecked. It will be weeks rather than days before it will reopen."

Payments will be sent out as normal.

Any newly unemployed people, or those wishing to register a change of address or circumstances, should visit the Caroline House office, or ring 0845-600 2003. Information for those looking for work is available on the Jobseeker Direct line, on 0845-606 0234.