A west Cork chef who converted a former Methodist church in to an "old-world style" restaurant, with original stained-glass windows, chandeliers and pews three years ago, has seen the premises go up in smoke in a suspected arson attack.
Regina Daly, owner of the Church Restaurant on Bridge Street, Skibbereen, admitted she cried for hours after she was told that her "pride and joy" had been destroyed by fire last Sunday evening.
"I loved the restaurant to bits. It wasn't just a restaurant, it was like my home away from home. I had a restaurant before this one but when I saw the church I knew it was my dream . . .
"I put every penny I had into it. I have cried myself to death. I can't understand why anyone would do something like this. I was so proud of it."
Ms Daly said she was particularly concerned for the welfare of her 20- plus staff members but insisted that she would do everything she could to restore the premises. She said her staff were inundated with offers of temporary jobs yesterday.
The Church Restaurant was housed in the heart of the town at a former Methodist church dating back to 1883. The menu was international - from wild Irish salmon and seafood chowder to steaks, pastas, Cajun and Mediterranean dishes. Locals said yesterday that the restaurant's greatest speciality was its service.
Cork South West Fianna Fáil TD Denis O'Donovan described the fire as a "hammerblow" to the town. He pledged to give every support he could to help the rebuilding effort.
Mr O'Donovan paid tribute to the emergency services who fought the blaze for several hours on Sunday.
Forensic tests at the scene got under way yesterday. Gardaí are treating the fire as suspicious pending the results of the tests. Several businesses adjoining the restaurant, including a hardware store, the masons hall and the local social welfare office were damaged in the blaze.
A man who was arrested on public order charges in the town was being held for questioning at Clonakilty Garda station yesterday.
Supt Pat Maher of Clonakilty said: "I would take this opportunity to appeal for witnesses. Some witnesses have come forward and assisted the gardaí. Skibbereen was fairly busy at the time yesterday evening between six and seven.
"I would appeal to anybody with no matter what information they have no matter how insignificant it may seem to them give it to the gardaí and let them assess it."