Firefighters from Sunderland and South Shields were sent to the site of the Whitburn Lodge pub, in Mill Lane, yesterday (Sunday, January 1) afternoon, following reports of the incident.
Crews have also had to return to the former hostelry today (Monday, January 2).
See our pictures from the scene showing the devastation to the building.
1. Fire damage
Firefighters were initially called to the Whitburn Lodge at about 4.30pm on New Year's Day. Photo: Frank Reid
2. Former pub
The former pub had been derelict for several years before the blaze. Photo: Frank Reid
3. Major damage
Even from the outside, extensive damage to the inside of the building could be seen Photo: Frank Reid
4. New Year's blaze
Fire crews had to visit the site again, on Monday, January 2. Photo: Frank Reid
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