TWO dogs and hundreds of chickens perished in a fire at Peter Tavy early on Sunday morning.
The blaze is believed to have started in a barn at Will Farm at about 6am. Strong winds fanned the flames and the timber construction of the building meant the fire was quickly out of control.
Chris Neale, of Tavistock fire brigade, said they mobilised both engines, but were delayed in the narrow lanes. The smaller 4 x 4 utility vehicle was called, but the two officers on board were unable to unchain the two dogs or release all the chickens.
The barn was razed, along with a tractor, a car, large trailer and other agricultural implements.
'It was sad we couldn't save any of the dogs or chickens,' said Mr Neale. 'And frustrating to be delayed so long.'