A BARN fire in remote woodland outside Bridford was started deliberately, fire chiefs have revealed.
More than 20 firefighters were called to the blaze at Copplestone Cottage just half-a-mile north of the village.
A fire spokesman confirmed that lyesterday's incident appeared to have been started deliberately. Police were being informed.
The alarm was raised just before 11am with the barn, measuring 10m by 5m, well alight by the time the emergency services arrived at the scene.
Pumps were sent from Moretonhampstead, Exeter and Bovey Tracey together with a water carrier from Exeter and a light 4 x 4 pumping vehicle from Chagford.
Hay and bale contents were badly damaged in the blaze as were a store of tyres, straw, stubble and plastic and agricultural bags.
Two hose reel jets and one main jet were used with water supplied from a hydrant close by.
A fire spokesman confirmed: 'It would appear that the incident was started deliberately.' Anyone with information about the matter can ring police on 101 or use the confidential Crimestoppers service on 0800 555111.