DEVON and Somerset Fire and Rescue crews were mobilised to a report of black smoke in the area of a farm in Sutcombe, near Holsworthy, the first call received just after 1am on Friday, July 31.

One fire engine from Holsworthy was initially mobilised but then the incident was escalated due to further information about what was involved in fire.

Fire appliances on scene at Sutcombe, near Holsworthy.
Fire appliances on scene at Sutcombe, near Holsworthy. (Holsworthy Fire Station)

Holsworthy fire crew said that the fire involved two large silage pits and that the fire had spread to a row of trees.

Eight fire engines in total along with two water carriers, other specialist appliances and supporting officers attended.

They came from Barnstaple, Ilfracombe, Appledore, Bideford, Hartland, Hatherleigh, Holsworthy, North Tawton, Okehampton, Torrington, Danes Castle (Exeter) and Crediton.

A fire appliance at the Sutcombe fire.
A fire appliance at the Sutcombe fire. (Holsworthy Fire Station)

The fire involved 2,000 tonnes of silage, 50% damage by fire and water.

Equipment used included two sets of breathing apparatus, three hose reel jets, 29 litres of compressed air foam, a temperature probe, a drone and water bowsers to supplement water.

The fire crews left the scene at about 8.30am.