The two arson attacks are believed to be linked, police have said (Photo: @BurtonFire/Twitter)
Two farm blazes twenty miles apart from each other are being treated by the police as linked arson attacks.
The first fire occurred at a barn in Little Oxenden, Northamptonshire at around 03:40 BST on Sunday (27 September).
The second blaze involved a 'large quantity of hay bales deliberately set on fire' at a farm in Orlingbury Road, Hannington, at about 17:30 on the same day.
(Photo: @BurtonFire/Twitter)
Northamptonshire Police's rural crime team said the farmers had been left 'heartbroken' after the incident.
"Anyone with information regarding these incidents, please make contact," PC Hutch Hutchings said in a tweet.
"The long term destruction and loss for the farmer following this is heartbreaking for them."
How do I reduce the risk of an arson attack?
Whilst arson attacks on farms and small holdings may be difficult to eliminate, the NFU has a number of precautions that can substantially reduce the risk:
• Remove hay and straw from fields as soon as possible after harvesting
• Store bales separately from buildings, machinery and chemicals
• Make stacks a reasonable size and space them at least 10 metres apart
• Site stacks away from paths and rights of way
• Keep petrol, diesel and other fuels (including gas cylinders) stored in secure areas
• Keep fertilisers and pesticides under lock and key
• Dispose of refuse safely on a regular basis
• Ensure fences and gates are in good condition and check them regularly
• Install intruder sensors and security lighting
• Prepare a fire routine and action plan and make sure all farm staff know what to do
• If a fire breaks out, call the fire and rescue service without delay.