A barn and agricultural vehicles were severely damaged in a fire near Dereham on Tuesday night.

Eastern Daily Press: Fire crews at Poplar Farm, Manor Road, Scarning after a barn fire.PHOTO BY SIMON FINLAYFire crews at Poplar Farm, Manor Road, Scarning after a barn fire.PHOTO BY SIMON FINLAY (Image: ARCHANT NORFOLK)

Around 40 firefighters tackled the blaze at Poplar farm, Manor Road, Scarning.

Nobody was harmed and horses nearby were moved to safety.

Peter Rowe, station manager at Sprowston, said: 'It has been quite a significant fire but fortunately the sort of incident that we are used to dealing with.

'A significant amount of damage has been caused at a great cost to the owners.'

He added: 'It is too early to say what caused the fire but there is nothing to suggest it was not accidental.'

Norfolk Fire and Rescue spokesman said cylinders and asbestos were among the materials caught up in the blaze which began just after 7.30pm. The spokesman said the asbestos sheeting, which presented a 'low danger' had since been made safe.

Firefighters from Swaffham, Reepham, Dereham, Watton, Sprowston and water carrier from Hethersett worked together to put out the blaze.

Fire crews had left the scene by 10.15pm