Forty firefighters battled a major blaze at an abattoir in Angus for nine hours.

The fire broke out at Matheson Jess on Montrose street, Brechin, at 4am on Saturday.

Twelve fire engines were sent to the scene, along with specialist height vehicles.

The business was closed at the time and nobody was injured in the fire, which was extinguished at around 1pm.

Police are investigating the cause and have asked witnesses to contact them.

Detective inspector Scott Fotheringham said: "This has been an extensive fire but thankfully, as the premises was shut, no one has been injured.

"Our inquiries will continue throughout the day and I would ask that if anyone has information about the incident, they call police with any details they have."