THE owner of Khushi's in Dunfermline has been left "devastated" after a fire broke out above his restaurant.

Riaz Mohammed has confirmed that the eatery will be closed until further notice after the "tragedy". 

He said that the building itself has been "severely damaged". 

In a statement issued within the last hour, Mr Mohammed gave thanks to the firefighters and emergency service personnel who "bravely extinguished the fire and ensured everyone's safety during the incident."

He said: "We are devastated to confirm that around 6:00pm yesterday a fire broke out on a floor above Khushi's restaurant.

"We are incredibly thankful that no-one was hurt but both the restaurant and the building itself have been severely damaged.

"Our sincerest thanks go out to the fire crews and emergency service personnel who bravely extinguished the fire and ensured everyone's safety during the incident.

"We are humbled by the number of messages that we have received this morning from Dunfermline businesses, groups and individuals offering us help and support.

"We are so grateful to be part of a community that doesn't hesitate to come to the aid of others in times of need.

"You are amazing and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts."

He added that the damage is currently being assessed and updates will be provided in due course. 

Mr Mohammed continued: "As a result of this tragedy, Khushi's restaurant will be closed until further notice and we apologise to our guests for the cancellation of all upcoming bookings.

"We are already assessing the damage and working out the best way to move forwards.

"We will keep you updated on our progress via our social media channels.

"In true Khushi's spirit we remain positive and we will do everything we can to be back serving our community in the shortest time frame possible."

Lourenzos nightclub, next door to Khushi's, has confirmed it too will be closed until the premises is deemed to be safe. 

A notice to customers stated: "Due to last night's fire at our neighbours Khushis. Unfortunately Lourenzos will remain closed today until we are confident it is safe for you all to return.

"We will update you as soon as we get the all clear!

"Our thoughts and best wishes are with everyone at Khushi's and a huge thank you to the firefighters who worked relentlessly to keep everyone safe and Lourenzos standing...Absolute Heroes."

Dunfermline Carnegie Library and Galleries will also be closed while safety assessments are carried out. 

A statement read: "Due to last night's fire at our dear friends Khushi's, we will be closed today until a structural survey has been carried out.

"Our thoughts and best wishes are with everyone involved in Khushi's."

PJ Molloys will remain open this evening after being forced to close due to the fire last night. 

The venue is to open at 7pm, with Kirsten Adamson confirming that her gig there tonight will also go ahead. 

Access to PJ’s will be from the East of Canmore Street due to remaining road closures with no access from Guildhall Street.