A HUGE thank you has gone out to the firefighters and passers-by who helped when a stables caught fire on Sunday.

Owner Marian Coghlan had only been at the site 25 minutes earlier, but later turned around to see a huge plume of black smoke emanating from the stables, in Pound Lane, Calbourne.

A large amount of hay and an old horsebox, which was being used as a storage container, had caught fire, during the very hot weather and dry conditions.

Fire crews were quickly on the scene and the fire dampened down, with thermal imaging used to detect any heat spots in the hay.

Owner thanks those who helped during stables fire

Marian said: "It was quite scary really, but all the horses were absolutely fine, not even panicked.

"No people were injured and the barn with this year's hay, somehow, survived. We must have had guardian angels.

"I would like to thank all the firefighters so very much for all their efforts, they were amazing.

"Also the help offered by passers-by and local friends was overwhelming.

"An unknown couple came to help as they had a fire extinguisher in their van. We would like to thank them for their help and if they get back in touch we will replace the fire extinguisher.

"It is heartwarming to know there are still some wonderful people out there. We have an amazing community. Thank you all so very much."