Rare cattle saved from suspected arson attack

EIGHTY rare breed cattle were rescued from a blaze believed to be started by arsonists that destroyed a barn on the Temple Newsam estate in Leeds.

Investigations were continuing yesterday but it is thought the fire at the farm at the historic house was started deliberately.

The fire took hold at about 6.45pm on Sunday.

Fire crews were still on the scene yesterday and were expected to remain there as they continue damping down operations for a few days to come.

The farm will remain closed this week.

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Station Commander Andrew Alderson, who was in charge of the incident yesterday morning, said: "I can't praise the firefighters enough for the job they did ensuring the cattle were removed from harms way.

"They also managed to contain the fire to one half of the building. It was a fantastic effort all round."

Firefighters helped separate cows which were being housed in a nearby building.

No animals were harmed and the cows were safely relocated to the farmyard as the fire was contained.

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A Leeds City Council spokesman said: "A fire has destroyed a barn, containing straw bales, at Temple Newsam Farm.

"Several animals were moved to safety – neither livestock nor people have been hurt.

"Temple Newsam Farm will be closed for the rest of this week."

The rare breeds rescued included such breeds as Gloucester, Kerry, Red Poll, Shetland, Vaynol and White Park. Some of the animals are pregnant.

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