A FIRE which destroyed a barn and caused £65,000 worth of damage was started deliberately, police say.

The fire started at about 6.30pm on Thursday, June 19, in Freehold Lane, Old Malton, which runs north of Eden Camp and links Edenhouse Lane with Borough Mere Lane.

Police said the barn contained hay and straw which was completely destroyed along with the structure itself. They have appealed to anyone who walks their dogs or runs in the area and who may have seen anything suspicious to contact them.

Anyone with information should phone North Yorkshire Police on 101, email nick.coning@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or phone Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.