A FARM in Rawtenstall was left without light and heat yesterday when a fire started in the barn.

A fault on the electrical system's incoming supply caused the fire in the building, which is connected to the farmhouse in Edge Lane.

The owner discovered the fire after her lights and heaters went off and she smelt smoke shortly before 8am.

Firefighters were at the scene for more than two-and-a-half hours. Sub officer Nigel Boden said: "It was not a particularly serious fire but it could have been more serious if the fire had spread to the farmhouse.

"The electrical system was completely destroyed."

Workmen were expecting the power to be back on yesterday.

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