An arson investigation is under way into a massive and suspicious fire at Poltimore House near Exeter. Devon and Cornwall Police were alerted to the fire in the early hours of this morning following calls from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.
Crews were dispatched to the scene just after 1am following several 999 calls reporting the fire. Initially, ten fire engines were sent to the scene, but this has now been reduced to three. Devon and Cornwall Police are also present at the scene.
The incident is currently being treated as a suspected arson, and the police are appealing for anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious around the time of the fire to get in touch. There are no details at present as to the extent of the damage.
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A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: "Police are investigating a suspicious fire at Poltimore House in Devon. Officers were notified of the fire overnight between Monday, April 8 and Tuesday, April 9 and later requested to attend by the fire service.
"The incident is being treated as a suspected arson and police are appealing for anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious around the time of the fire to contact them. Please contact police online or by telephone on 101, quoting crime reference 50240083403".
Firefighters remain at the scene of the large blaze on Tuesday morning. A spokesperson for the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that the property was 'fully involved in fire'. Photos from the scene show flames engulfing the building and crews from Torquay, Danes Castle, Cullompton, Honiton, Ottery St Mary, Sidmouth, Ivybridge, Middlemoor and Bridgwater all attended.
A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "Fire control received several 999 calls reporting a fire in a derelict property just outside of Exeter just after 1am. Two Fire Engines were initially sent, however information gained from other callers, fire control mobilised a third Fire Engine."
"On arrival crews confirmed this derelict property was fully involved in fire and requested a further three Fire Engines (six in total), two Aerial Ladder Platforms and two Water Bowsers. Crews have been using multiple jets to extinguish the fire.
"We are still currently on scene, although we have reduce down to two Fire Engines and one Aerial Ladder Platform. Police are also in attendance assisting with the incident. Further details to follow."
Poltimore House, near Broadclyst, dates back to the 1560s. It is steeped in history, having been in use as a hospital, college and home to the Poltimore family. Since the First World War the manor house has changed hands several times, and there was a rapid decline of the building
The once grand building had fallen into disrepair over recent decades. However, two charities were working hard to make it useable again and welcome people to view the house and grounds.
The Poltimore House Trust and Friends of Poltimore House have carried out some restoration work, making the house more welcoming to visitors. The Poltimore Music & Arts Festivalis due to return after a five-year hiatus next month. It is not yet unknown if that will still be able to go ahead.
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