POLICE have been called in to investigate a fire in a Chard home.

Firefighters from three stations were sent to reports of smoke issuing from a ground floor window of the property at around 8.30pm yesterday (Tuesday, February 22).

A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "Fire appliances attended reports of smoke issuing from a ground floor window of a domestic property.

"Crews arrived on scene and confirmed one fire well alight."

Crews from Axminster, Chard and Martock fought the fire, while the incident support unit from Martock was also in attendance.

The spokesperson added: "Four breathing apparatus wearers entered the property with two hose reel jets and thermal imaging cameras to put the fire out.

"Two cats were rescued from the property and taken to a local vet.

"Crews then ventilated the property and the police were requested to attend due to the suspicious circumstances.

"The property was severely damaged by fire and heat on the ground floor, and the first floor by smoke and heat.