A SHED has been severely damaged following a fire in Ilminster.

Crews from Taunton and Ilminster were sent to reports of a fire on Wood Road in Ashill at around 2.15pm this afternoon (February 18).

A specialist hazardous materials officer was also sent as there were fears there could be an explosion as there were possile cylinders and petrol stored in the shed.

On arrival, crews found smoke and flames issuing from the shed.

The fire involved a shed measuring approximately five metres by three metres which was severely damaged by fire.

Crews use one hose reel jet, one safety jet, three drag forks, a thermal imaging camera and two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus, to extinguish the fire.

It was believed to have been started accidentally.