THE Haven Hotel in Dunmore East had to be evacuated last night after a fire caught hold of the premises at 11.40pm.

Units of the fire services from Dunmore East, Tramore and Waterford city attended the scene. The fire started in the kitchen area in the basement and was contained there. However, other areas suffered smoke damage.

Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze. The Kelly family, who own the hotel, said thankfully no one was hurt and all the residents were evacuated safely.