Shop rises from ashes

ALMOST three years to the week after he watched his business burned to the ground, Anthony McDonald welcomed old friends and customers back to his brand new Victoria Street store on Tuesday.
By The Newsroom
Published 24th Aug 2010, 12:43 BST
Updated 24th Aug 2010, 21:57 BST

On August 12, 2007 Anthony looked on as his business of 17 years was burned to the ground as seven fire crews tackled the blaze.

Anthony had built the business up from the age of 22 before the accidental fire left nothing but the charred remains of a once thriving business.

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"It was very tough watching the firemen try to contain the blaze," said Anthony.

"It has been a long three years, trying at times with a lot of frustrations and a few fallings out along the way.

"But we are glad to be back and open for business and providing a service to the community."

The new building on Victoria Street also has three apartments and a chippy.

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Anthony continued: "There were three other businesses that were affected by the fire.

"One of them was able to relocate but the guys in the chip shop were just preparing to open and have had to wait three years to open.

"The building had to be completely demolished, but we have a new purpose built building and it's fantastic.

"I'm looking forward to getting back to it."