Fire breaks out at derelict Leeds pub as licence suspension comes to end

The George IV pub in Hunslet closed in July when its licence was suspended amid concerns that it was being used as a weapons and drugs den.

After hearing evidence from police on July 18, a Leeds City Council panel ordered a three month suspension which would have expired today.

However, firefighters were called to the pub in Grove Road at around midnight following reports of a blaze.

Crews from Leeds and Hunslet found the first floor and roof were alight.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the building and used two large jets to put out the flames.

A West Yorkshire Fire service spokeswoman said the cause of the fire was now under investigation.