Firefighters across Somerset have had to tend to a large fire on a farm in Othery, Somerset last night.
Six fire engines arrived at the farm to reports of a large fire spreading across hay, they fought the fire until the early hours of the morning.
The fire spread across the farm, eventually causing the whole barn to be set alight.
More foam had to be sent from Bridgwater and shortly after 10pm, the roof of the barn had started to collapse.
This incident comes as recent statistics show a rise in farm fires, prompting farmers to be asked to check their evacuation procedures.
Claims rose by an alarming 14% to £47.9m in 2015, according to insurer NFU Mutual.
The most common cause was electrical faults, which were responsible for almost half of 2015 fire claims, followed by arson and mechanical failures.
The south of England and East Anglia were the worst affected regions last year, followed by the North East.
"Fire remains one of the greatest hazards to the lives of farmers and with claims peaking in August and September, it’s important to be alert to the risks and have plans prepared and shared with family members and staff," said Tim Price, NFU Mutual Rural Affairs Specialist.
"The scale of these claims shows how important it is to take all possible steps to prevent fires breaking out, and to have clear plans to evacuate people and livestock safely in the event of a fire.
"Also, it’s vital to make sure you have the right sort of fire extinguishers maintained in good order so you can fight small fires safely."
