FOUR men have been arrested in connection with the fire that devastated a mansion in Bishops Lydeard last week.

More than 50 firefighters were called to Sandhill Park after a blaze broke out in the derelict building in the early hours of Tuesday.

This week police said four males aged 17, 18, 19 and 22 have been arrested on suspicion of arson and have been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Meanwhile, in a separate development, villagers who were infuriated by the suspected arson attack have united to raise money as a reward for information.

More than £300 has been pledged by 25 people in and around Bishops Lydeard to encourage people to come forward with information about potential culprits – although the arrests made are not thought to be as a consequence of this.

The police have said they would match whatever the locals raise with funds from their Crimestoppers budget in the event of a successful conviction.

Parish councillor Mike Rigby, who helped organise the reward, said: “It is great that people who have no financial interest in the building have got together and are keen to see that those who have damaged it are brought to justice.

"It is important that this also acts as a deterrent to such behaviour.”

Mr Rigby and his co-organisers have sent out messages, emails and letters to local people and businesses in an effort to raise money.

Among those donating via a Facebook page were ghost-hunters drawn to the mansion by its haunted reputation.

The police are continuing their investigations into the fire and anyone with information is asked to contact Taunton CID on the non-emergency number 101.