CREWS from several fire engines have been battling a large barn fire this afternoon (Friday, August 12).

The incident in Lower Town, in the Halberton area, was attended shortly before 2pm by appliances from Tiverton, Cullompton and Middlemoor, together with the water bowser from Danes Castle.

Upon arrival, a further three engines were requested due to smoke and flames issuing - they arrived from Wellington, Danes Castle and Witheridge, together with the Incident Command Unit from Honiton.

A telehandler was also sent from special operations at Clyst St George.

A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "Crews confirmed a barn approximately 30 metres by 30 metres fully stowed with hay and straw which was well alight.

"The fire spread to an adjacent barn containing 50 cattle and a silage pit containing approximately 200 tonnes of silage.

"Crews were at work using four breathing apparatus wearers and three hose reel jets."

Shortly before 4pm the spokesman said crews were still battling the fire.

He said the barn was believed to be 50 metres by 25 metres and contained approximately 300 tonnes of straw and 30 tonnes of hay.