POLICE and fire officers are investigating an arson attack which destroyed a barn containing 60 tons of hay.

Fire chiefs believe the blaze at New House Farm, Tudor Avenue, Lea, Preston, was started deliberately by youths who were spotted hanging around beforehand.

Fire crews from Preston and Fulwood stations attended the incident at 4.30am on Tuesday and spent several hours trying to control the blaze at the barn near Ashton and Lea Golf Course.

Officers from Lancashire Constabulary and the county's Fire and Rescue Service have recently launched Operation Caretaker to keep an eye on buildings during the school summer holidays.

The barn fire follows an arson attack in a toilet block at St Mary's and St Benedict's RC Primary School, Bamber Bridge, reported in The Citizen last month, which police believe was started by youngsters.

Three crews were brought in to bring the barn blaze under control and the smouldering hay was transported out of the barn on tractors to spread on nearby fields.

The property is leased off Hoghton Estates, owners of Hoghton Tower, near Preston, and managed by farmer Jim Tudor.

Mr Tudor said: "I called the fire brigade and they got it under control quickly. The livestock are all in the fields at this time of year so there was no harm done to them.

"I don't know what could have started it. It's not like there are any electrics in there and it certainly didn't spontaneously combust."

Land agent for Hoghton Estates, John Forrester, assessed the damage. He said: "Primarily we will be making sure the building is safe and then contacting our insurers."

Sub officer at Preston fire station, Frank Postlethwaite, said: "Children were seen in the area. We will be submitting our report and then the police will take over the investigation."

Anyone with information should call Preston police on 01772 203203.