A fire ripped through a thatched barn and completely destroyed the roof.

Firefighters were called to a farm off Blackhouse Lane, Petworth, at about 12.45am this morning to find the barn well alight.

Four crews were needed to tackle the blaze, which was eventually brought under control just before 6am.

Firefighters are expected to stay at the scene for several more hours to make sure the fire is completely out.

The barn, which is used for storage, was badly damaged in the incident but there are no reports of any injuries.

The cause of the fire is being investigated.