A POPULAR Scottish-themed restaurant and nightclub has been "extensively damaged" by a fire.

Nearly 40 firefighters tackled the fire at McTavish's Kitchens in Fort William yesterday.

Northern Constabulary said residents of the neighbouring Grand Hotel and several nearby flats had been evacuated. No-one was injured.

The fire was reported at around 3.30am yesterday after a member of the public smelled smoke.

Fire appliances from Kinlochewe, Fort Augustus and Inverness were called in to help local Fort William crews.

A spokeswoman from Highlands and Islands Fire and Rescue Service said the fire was under control, but had caused "extensive damage". Relief crews from Inverness were called to the site yesterday to take over some duties.

The building has been deemed unsafe by structural engineers, so firefighters were working yesterday to damp down the building from the outside.

A Northern Constabulary spokesman said the cause of the fire was unknown.

He added that a full investigation would be undertaken by police and fire and rescue service officials.

McTavish's, which is on the town's High Street, serves traditional Scottish food and stages Scottish shows, which include Highland dancing and feature fiddle and accordion music.