AN outbuilding fire that broke out to the rear of Henson Park in Chard, is believed to have been started deliberately and is possibly the result of arson.

Last night (October 22, between 9pm-12am) fire crews from Ilminster and Axminster stations were mobilised by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service to a confirmed shed fire within Chard.

The Ilminster crew were first on scene, arriving at around 9.07pm, they made an initial attack on the fire which knocked the flames back.

The crews battled the fire throughout the night, using hose reel jets, a drag fork, a triple extension ladder and scene lighting to combat and extinguish the blaze.

Fire crews also checked nearby adjoining sheds and properties, to ensure that there was no fire spread.

Once the fire was out, there were still several hot spots picked up from the Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC), so crews began to expose and remove elements of the building structure to dampen it down.

Once the hot spots were at a lower temperature, the Axminster crew were made available and then returned to home station at around midnight. Ilminster crew also cleared from the incident shortly after.

Overall, the outbuilding sustained 60 percent damage caused by the fire and smoke during the blaze.

The fire is now out, and the scene has been handed over to local police officers who are currently investigating possible arson - as the cause of the fire is believed to be deliberate.

The Avon and Somerset police are currently appealing for information or footage of the Chard fire.

To contact the Avon and Somerset Police, go to their website, or call 101, using the reference number 5224279073

A spokesperson for the Avon and Somerset police said: “We were called at about 9.20pm on Tuesday (October 22) by the fire and rescue service to attend the scene of a fire in Henson Park, Chard, which caused damage to outbuildings and a wall.

“Officers attended the scene and spoke to residents in the area.

“We’re investigating the circumstances and would appeal to anyone with information, or relevant dashcam/doorbell/mobile phone footage.”