A POLICE investigation has been launched after more than 30 firefighters tackled a blaze in a commercial barn in north Dorset.

Crews were called to Crown Road in Marnhull at 8.35pm on Sunday night where they found the barn well alight.

Now officers have said they think it could have been started deliberately.

Six fire engines, water carriers, an aerial appliance and a command unit were at the scene at the height of the blaze.

They travelled to the scene from Yeovil, Shaftesbury, Sturminster Newton, Gillingham, Sherborne and Mere.

Around 25 calls were received from members of the public and nearby residents were urged to keep doors and windows closed.

A spokesman for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue said the fire continued to burn throughout the night and one fire engine and an officer remain at the scene this morning to monitor the situation.

Detective Sergeant Tom Hall, of Weymouth CID, said: “We are continuing to liaise with the fire service to establish the cause of the fire, which is currently unexplained.

“We are considering the possibility that the fire may have been started deliberately and I am appealing for anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area last night or who has any information that may assist our investigation to please contact Dorset Police.”

Information to Dorset Police on 101, quoting occurrence number 55190133595 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.