A DERELICT building has been badly damaged in a suspected arson attack, according to Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.

Firefighters from Bridgwater were called to the building in Hamp Bridge, Bridgwater at 4.52pm on Wednesday (August 7).

When fire crews arrived the incident commander confirmed smoke and flames were issuing from the building. Due to a poor water supply a water bowser was also sent from Bridgwater.

The fire involved a single storey derelict building measuring approx. 20m x 10m. Crews got to work extinguishing the fire using one 45mm jet and one hose reel jet.

At 5.13pm crews were using two hose reel jets, one 45mm jet and one thermal imaging camera to detect any further hotspots and fire spread.

At 5.41pm the fire was confirmed to be out.

A spokesman for the fire service said the fire caused 40 per cent damage to the single storey derelict building. The fire was extinguished using two hose reel jets, one 45mm jet, one thermal imaging camera, drag forks and ceiling hooks.

Police were informed as the cause of the fire was believed to be deliberate.