Volunteers 'devastated' after huge fire breaks out at historic manor house near Exeter

  • Jacquie Bird reports on the extent of damage caused by the fire.

Volunteers preserving an historic manor house near Exeter say they've been left devastated after the building was badly damaged in a suspected arson attack.

Six fire engines were called to Poltimore House, near Exeter, in the early hours of Tuesday 9 April. Firefighters were still at the scene of the blaze almost 24 hours later.

Crews were dispatched to the Grade II* listed building just after 1am, following several 999 calls.

The Poltimore House Trust, set up in 2000 to preserve the estate, said the house had suffered "extensive damage" in a suspected arson attack, which is believed to have started in the library.

  • Footage shows the historic house on fire

“We're still very much in a state of shock", Chair of the trust, Dr Peter Totterdill told ITV News.

"My heart really goes out to the volunteers who have been working here for years. They've fallen in love with the place. I fell in love with it at first sight almost.

"It's a great loss. We've now lost so much heritage. It's always been such a special place for everybody who knows it."

""I have been at the House all morning and am shocked at the scale of the devastation."

He added: “I know that many people are distraught by what has happened and we are all feeling a deep sense of loss.

"However I have been in touch with many of our Board members and we’re determined to save what we can of this important part of Devon’s heritage, and to hold on to our vision of Poltimore House and Grounds as a place for everyone.

Fire crews were called to the Grade II* listed building in the early hours of Tuesday 9 April. Credit: Ottery St Mary Fire Station

“More than ever, we need everyone’s help to recover from this disaster and to move forward with optimism.”

The trust added that over the past couple of years, Poltimore House has become a hub for the local community with a farm shop, thriving cafe, open house sessions and events – all supported by dedicated volunteers.

It is expected that a fundraiser will be set up to raise money for the property's restoration in the coming days.