A large-scale investigation is taking place in west Cumbria today after a huge barn broke out killing five horses and a dog.

The incident was reported to police about 10.30pm last night and happened on land near Distington. The animals were believed to be in a farm building at Barfs Road.

Sadly, five horses and a dog were killed in the blaze, Cumbria Police have confirmed.

The cause of the fire is unknown, however it is being treated as suspicious and both the police and fire service are conducting enquiries to establish what exactly happened.

A fire service investigation team as well as a CSI crew from the police were due at the site this morning.

Inspector Gary Hunter said: "The fire service had attended. They deemed it to be suspicious.

"The cost of the damage so far is estimated to be at £60,000-plus."

Inspector Hunter added: “We are working with the fire service to establish the circumstances of last night’s fire and to identify any potential causes.

“If anyone has any information on last night’s fire I’d urge them to get in touch.”

Horse-related and blacksmith equipment have also been destroyed.

* Anyone with information should call police on 101.