Alliance East Belfast MLA Chris Lyttle has said he is thankful no-one was injured following yesterday’s fire at the Bombardier factory in the constituency.

The fire, described as significant by the Fire and Rescue Service, is believed to have started accidentally within a machine at the plant in the docks area. It damaged machinery and the roof before being extinguished.

“I am grateful to the Fire and Rescue Service for their prompt and professional response to this serious incident, which could have caused even more damage if not brought under control quickly,” said Mr Lyttle.

“Thankfully nobody was injured and the fire contained to one area, while work has resumed in other parts of the factory.

“Bombardier is a major employer in East Belfast and beyond thanks to its supply chain, and is a flagship company for Northern Ireland across the world. Luckily it appears the impact on the company will not be too severe.”