ARSONISTS are believed to be responsible for setting alight 500 tons of hay and straw at a barn in Abbots Morton, near Inkberrow.

Firefighters were called to Abbots Morton Manor Farm in Inkberrow Road at 12.34pm yesterday and worked throughout the night and this morning damping down.

It is believed to be owned by former Worcester MP and Conservative Minister Lord Walker.

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service spokesman Alec Mackie said a horse rider had reported seeing a car speeding past her in a lane nearby.

"She took the registration number and reported it because she could see flames and smoke coming out of the barn.

"We are treating the fire as suspicious."