Shetland hotel destroyed in overnight blaze

A hotel in Shetland has been destroyed by fire.

The Moorfield Hotel in the village of Brae was reported to be alight at about 00:30. Crews from eight appliances remained at the scene on Monday morning.

The hotel had mainly been used to house oil and gas workers but was due to close in August.

Owners BDL said they were "shocked" by the blaze and have promised a full investigation.

Shetland MSP Beatrice Wishart said the blaze was "devastating news" and that her thoughts are with staff, guests, and hotel owners.

All remaining staff and residents are reported to be safe and have been taken to alternative accommodation.

BDL had confirmed the closure of the 100-bedroom hotel, with the loss of 45 jobs, in June.

The decision was made after Shetland Gas Plant operators Total opted to not renew its accommodation contract with the hotel.

Iain MacLeod, of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said nine appliances had originally attended the scene.

He said: "As part of a pre-planned emergency planning agreement, Sollum Voe Oil Terminal's industrial fire teams and resources also arrived at the incident to assist firefighters.

"A number of hotel guests were evacuated and relocated. There are no reported casualties.

"Crews remain at the scene as they work to extinguish the fire."