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.
5. Major response
Crews were despatched to deal with the original fire from South Shields and Sunderland Photo: Frank Reid
6. Serious incident
It took firefighters several hours, until shortly before midnight, to bring the fire under control. Photo: Frank Reid
7. Bird's eye view
An aerial photo from Davy Robson has shown the extent of the damage. Photo by Davy Robson Photography Photo: Davy Robson Photography
8. Significant damage
More aerial photos have shown significant damage to the building's roof. Photo by Ian McClelland Media Photo: Ian McClelland Media