Animals die as second blaze rips through Leeds farm

It was the second blaze at the farm this year and despite the efforts of firefighters two Berkshire sows and their litters of 16 piglets, along with 14 rabbits and two young chicks perished in the fire. Historic farm equipment was also lost.

Firefighters were called at 5am yesterday to the blaze. The farm is closed until further notice.

A Leeds City Council spokesman said: “As a result of this morning’s fire at Temple Newsam’s Home Farm, unfortunately a number of animals which could not be rescued from the Cow Byre and Bothy building sadly died.

“The loss of these animals is very sad and distressing news, but we would also like to pay tribute to the efforts of the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and Leeds City Council staff who successfully rescued many more animals.

“The building itself is of great historical importance as it is one of the original farm buildings which dates back to the 19th century. It also contained historic farm equipment and machinery much of which unfortunately has been lost in the fire.”

A full investigation is now under way along with structural checks on the affected buildings.