A SUSPECTED arson attack at the former TJ's nightclub at the weekend has left the former owner' daughter devastated.

Firefighters battled the blaze at the club, in Clarence Place, Newport, at 2.08am on Saturday which is believed to have been started on the third floor of the three-storey building.

No-one was in the building at the time and the fire was put out by 3.53am.

Following the incident Leanne Jones, daughter of the late former owner of TJ's John Sicolo, said she was "heartbroken" at the news.

She said: "I am devastated. All I've ever wanted is the club back.

"I wish I could have it back to bring it back to what it was. I would love to have the chance to make it alive again."

TJ's closed in 2010, shortly after the death of Mr Sicolo, who ran the club for more than 40 years.

Acts which played at the legendary venue over the years included Manic Street Preachers, Primal Scream, Oasis, Green Day and Catatonia.

The club was later sold at auction but has remained shut up since its closure.

Speaking about the club and Mr Sicolo, Ms Jones added: "I really think if I could get it back, I could get help with it. The people of Newport miss it and miss him.

"That was his life. That was him. You didn't have TJ's without John and you didn't have John without TJ's.

Anyone with any information on the incident should call Gwent police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.