Irish Cops Probe 'Anti-Royal' Pub Blaze

An investigation has been launched into an overnight arson attack and robbery at an already controversal 'anti-Queen's visit' pub in Dublin.

Around 2am this morning, a number of men entered the Players Lounge in Fairview and demanded a sum of money. The pub is owned by the father of Celtic soccer player Anthony Stokes.

A blaze then broke out in the property, partly destroying the building with the blaze not being brought under control around 4am. However, no one was injured in the incident.

A police statement this morning said: "Gardaí at Clontarf are investigating an armed robbery and fire which occurred at a Public House in Fairview at approximately 2.20am this morning.

Four men entered the premises, one of the men was believed to be armed. A member of staff was taken to the office where the safe is contained. This staff manager was then tied up and an undisclosed amount if cash was taken.

"Two fires were started on the premises and extensive was caused to the lounge area.

"The scene of the incident is currently sealed off pending a Garda forensic examination," concluded the statement.

Earlier this year, owner John Stokes was ordered to remove a 40ft banner 'barring the Queen' that he had hung outside his pub ahead of her visit to Ireland.

BBC NI has since reported that Mr Stokes said he reluctantly agreed to take down the controversial sign after a senior garda threatened to object to his application for a number of late licences.

Investigating Gardaí are now appealing to any person who was in the Fairview Strand area between 2am and 3am and noticed anything suspicious to contact Clontarf Garda Station incident room 01- 6664800, the Garda Confidential Line 1800-666-111 or any Garda Station.

(BMcN/BMcC)