FIREFIGHTERS were called to a large barn fire shortly before midnight last night. (Saturday) Emergency services were called to the property between The Batts, in Bishop Auckland, and Newfield village.

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue service initially sent two engines from Bishop Auckland to the scene but further crews were deployed.

Seven appliances, a command unit and environmental protection unit were at the fire which a spokesperson described as a 30m x 20m hay barn that was well alight.

Four water jets were in use to tackle the blaze.

An update from the fire brigade stated that two appliances remained in attendance at around 5am this morning.