FIREFIGHTERS are battling a blaze near Cheddar involving around 500 bales of hay.

Crews from Bridgwater, Glastonbury and Cheddar were sent to the scene, at Rodney Stoke, at around 4.25am this morning (July 22).

Three fire engines and a water bowser were involved in the operation.

“Firefighters confirmed the barn contained approximately 500 bales of hay which were well alight and they were using main jets to cool a neighbouring barn,” a Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said.

“A telehandler was being used by the farer to remove hay from the neighbouring barns to reduce the risk of fire spread.

“All animals were free and clear of the barns.

“Water was being supplied by the water bowser supplemented with water from nearby land.”

They said crews remained on the scene to keep the fire under control.