A 'DELIBERATE' fire in rubbish which threatened to spread to a Taunton house was tackled by firefighters.

The incident, in South Street, was reported at around 5.40am today (September 20).

A crew from Taunton went to the scene, a Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said.

"On arrival crews confirmed this was a large rubbish fire that was now catching alight the side of a domestic property," they added.

"A further Fire Engine from Taunton was sent to assist.

"The fire involved domestic waste that had be deliberately set alight.

"It was extinguished using 2 Hose Reel Jets. A gas mains was also affected, so the Gas Board were requested to attend, as well as the police."

It is believed no one was hurt.