Huge barn fire destroys machinery, kills 12 cattle and brings down Merriott farm building near Crewkerne

Police were called to attend the large blaze at a farm in Haselbury Road by the fire service, and are treating the fire as deliberate.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene in Merriott at 3.12am on Saturday, November 14, and spent more than 13 and a half hours at the scene.

Two calves were rescued from the building but a further 12 were pronounced dead at the scene.

Part of the building has collapsed due to the fire and fire fighters are monitoring the situation.

There was various equipment, machinery and tools stored in the building and significant damage was caused by the fire.

Two fire engines from Martock and one from Crewkerne were called to the scene after numerous 999 calls from the public.

On the arrival of the fire service it was discovered a large amount of hay was 'well alight' within a farm building and another three engines were sent to help.

The fire service said that "the barn contained approximately 50 tonnes of round bale hay and 20 tonnes of square bale hay and this has been 50% fully involved in fire."

Relief crews and also the telehandler from Clyst St George were also sent to the fire.

An update on the scene made at 4.45pm said: "This incident is still on going with relief crews in attendance from Somerton and Yeovil, together with 2 telehandlers (a vehicle & crew from our USAR station in Exeter and the farmers own vehicle).

"Crews are currently using the telehandlers to remove hay, and other contents from the barn, before continuously turning them over and damping them down, whilst other sections of the barn are being allowed to burn out."

Police would like to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident who may have information to help their enquiries or who may have seen any vehicles in the area.

Public are encourage to contact police at Chard on the force number 101, quoting reference 5215040884.