A TRACTOR and a woodchip machine were "severely damaged" in a fire earlier this morning (Wednesday, July 20).

Firefighters from Wiveliscombe were called to the incident in Fordbridge, Station Road, Milverton, at 5.19am.

A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "On arrival, crews confirmed that this had been a controlled burn which had got out of control and spread to woodchips, a wood chipping machine and a tractor.

"Crews requested a second appliance for water, which came from Wellington.

"The fire was extinguished using one compressed air foam jet, one hose reel jet and one main jet.

"The tractor and woodchip machine were severely damaged by fire and approximately 40 tonnes of woodchip was damaged by fire.

"The cause was accidental. Duty of care was left with on-site staff."