A 52-year-old-man has been arrested in connection with a fire at a Middlesbrough bar.

Dozens of firefighters were called to deal with the blaze at the Platinum club, in Linthorpe Road, yesterday afternoon.

Police were forced to close the busy road for more than an hour while crews extinguished the fire and searched the premises.

Now officers are appealing for witnesses to the suspicious fire to come forward.

Detective Constable Lee Morgan said: "I would urge people who saw anyone acting suspiciously near the building between 11am and 2pm to get in contact with the police."

The man remains in custody as he helps police with their enquiries.

Anyone with information is urged to call DC Morgan on 01642-303126.