More than 10,000 bales of hay have been destroyed in a suspected arson attack in the South Hams.

The blaze began at a barn on Rocky Lane, Buckfastleigh, at about 10.30pm on Sunday.

The fire service said the building and its contents were “completely destroyed” in what is believed to be a “deliberate” attack.

Police say a 24-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson.

The force said it had launched an investigation into the “suspicious” fire.

A spokesman said: “The barn and its contents were completely destroyed.”

“A 24-year-old man, from Buckfastleigh, was located nearby and arrested on suspicion of arson.

“He remains in custody at this time.”

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: “The fire service received multiple calls for a report of a barn on fire in Buckfastleigh.

“The barn, which contained approximately 10,000 bales of hay, has been completely destroyed and the cause confirmed as deliberate.

“Duty of care will ultimately be left with the landowner and the police once our crew leave the incident ground.

“There were no casualties.”

Buckfastleigh Fire Station said: “We were called at approximately 10:30pm on Sunday, October 27, to an agricultural fire in the local area, which was a barn holding a large amount of hay.

“A tactical decision was made to let the fire burn due to the fully developed state, so crews contained the fire to just the building itself and remained on scene until 7:30am on Monday.

“We then handed over duties to our colleagues from Newton Abbot.

“We are due to attend the incident again on Monday.”

Devon and Cornwall Police have been contacted for more information.