AN “UNEXPLAINED” fire ripped through business premises at the former depot of a Llanrhystud coach company on Friday morning, causing “extensive damage” and leaving three businesses “devastated”.

The early hours fire tore through one building, damaging two others at the site of the former Lewis’ Coaches depot at Bryneithin in the village to the rear of the Black Lion pub.

Fire crews from Aberystwyth and as far away as Tumble battled for over three hours to get the blaze under control.

Police officers were also in attendance and are treating the fire as “unexplained”.

It is not yet known what caused the blaze or the severity of the damage to the three buildings, although police described the fire damage as “extensive”.

Llanrhystud councillor Rowland Rees-Evans, who was away when the fire struck, said the incident was “very sad news” for the village.

“I was away when it happened and have not had a chance to speak to those affected, although, I have heard that they are all devastated with their losses,” he told the Cambrian News.

“There were at least three if not four businesses affected and it will take some time before they are able to operate again.

“That’s not good at anytime of the year but probably worse with Christmas around the corner."

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