Gardaí launch investigation after Donegal church gutted in overnight fire

Gardaí to investigate cause of fire in St Mary's Church in Derrybeg.

An investigation has been launched after a much-loved Co Donegal church was gutted in an overnight fire.

Fire-fighters and the emergency services fought to save St Mary's Church in Derrybeg overnight.

The blaze broke out at about 4am.

Despite the efforts of the emergency services, the building was left gutted.

Nobody was injured in the huge blaze which could be seen for miles around.

The church was officially blessed on its opening in 1972 by then Bishop of Raphoe Dr McFeely.

Monsignor Kevin Gillespie, diocesan administrator of the Raphoe Diocese, celebrated his first Mass in the church.

He said he was "heartbroken" by the news of the fire.

He said: "I am heart broken to learn of the destruction by fire this morning of Séipéal Mhuire, na Doirí Beaga, the parish church for the parish of Gaoth Dobhair.

"And I think of all the people of Gaoth Dobhair at home and away will receive this news with great sadness. 

"We are grateful to An Garda Síochána who must now lead the necessary investigations.