About 35 Firefighters were called at around 11.45am on Friday, November 15, after the kitchen of the Taj restaurant in Prestwick went up in flames.

A police source confirmed where the fire took place and claimed that the kitchen was "completely destroyed".

Police cordoned off Prestwick High Street, between Gardiner Street and St Quivox Road for most of the afternoon.

Ambulance crews attended the scene, although no-one was injured.

Scottish Fire Service Group Commander Richie Duncan, the officer in charge, said: "On arrival our crews were met with thick black smoke and an intense fire that was not only visible within the property, but also clearly within the building’s structure.

"They had to work quickly to get main water jets on the fire and, with persons reported, to ensure there was no-one inside.

"This was an extremely challenging incident and the firefighters involved did an amazing job to bring the flames under control, stop them from spreading to adjoining buildings and ensure the safety of the public." Group Commander Duncan confirmed that no-one was injured and warned locals against fire hazards, adding: Thankfully no-one was hurt in this incident, which is a clear demonstration of how quickly fire can spread, whether in a business property or a home.

"Most fires start in the kitchen and we can all take action to prevent it from happening - by ensuring cooking appliances are never left unattended and flammable materials are kept away from potential sources of ignition.

"The truth is that fire can strike anywhere however, so working smoke alarms are absolutely vital to giving people the time they need to get to safety or for help to arrive." A police spokesman said: "As far as I'm aware the kitchen is completely destroyed.

"It was quite a big one but as far as I'm aware no-one was injured during the incident." A large crowd gathered at the polce cordons, with locals shocked to see one of the town's top eateries in flames.Eye-witnesses at the scene claim to have seen large amounts of smoke coming from the Taj.

One local shop worker said: "I work close to the Taj and I saw that when the firefighters opened the door there was smoke billowing out.

"It must have been a huge fire." Another onlooker added: "We were going for out lunch at the Taj. I'm in complete shock.

"As long as no-one was hurt that's the main thing. It's a real shame this has happened, hopefully it's not closed for too long."