Three fire engines were called to Kentucky Fried Chicken on Silver Street in Kettering at 8.45am yesterday morning after a fire that was started in a wheelie bin in an alleyway next door spread to the restaurant.

But it was open again for take away service yesterday evening and the franchisee expected to be offering full sit-down service this morning.

A spokesperson for the franchisee said: "We can confirm that our restaurant was closed for a short period as a precautionary measure, following a fire outside the building. We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused, but are pleased to say that the fire service has given us the all clear to reopen, and it's business as usual again."

The interior of the restaurant was damaged by the fire, heat and smoke and the timber roof of the alleyway where the fire started was severely burnt.

A spokesman for Northamptonshire Fire and rescue Service said: "The cause was a fire that spread from a wheelie bin set on fire in the alleyway."

They could not confirm whether the fire was started deliberately until a more thorough investigation has taken place.

Smoke was billowing from the restaurant when the fire crews arrived and six firemen had to use breathing apparatus to get in.

The crews also used large fan, called a Positive Pressure Ventilation unit to clear the smoke.

Police closed Silver Street for a couple of hours and traffic was diverted while the crews attended the fires.

Ruth Groom, Mayor of Kettering is set to open Bistro Royale in the shop next to KFC on Thursday(June18] and although the fire did not reach the new restaurant, the road closure caused delays to the work.

Mr Kamil Gunesh, 50, owner of Bistro Royale, said: "They cordoned off the restaurant and five delivery people and people fixing the machines couldn't get into the premises.

"But now they are going to work overtime to finish off the job.

"We cannot let the mayor down. She is coming to cut the ribbon. It will definitely ready."