The A342 between Devizes and Chippenham will remain closed at Rowde until at least 7am on Tuesday because of a fire at West End Farm this morning.

Eight Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service crews were sent to the farm just after 11am.

The fire service tweeted: "Currently dealing with a big barn fire off the A342 at #Rowde - eight crews mobilised. Best to avoid area if you can!"

And, at just after 4pm, the fire service said: "A342 at #Rowde likely to remain closed into the evening as we tackle a barn fire in the village. Sorry for inconvenience caused."

This was later updated as crews will stay at the farm through the night and the A342 will be closed "until 7am at least".

Police and ambulance were at the scene but no casualties were reported and livestock is believed to have been in fields, safe from the blaze. 

Efforts were being made to protect several other nearby farm buildings as the 20m by 15m barn burned.

Flames and smoke came from farm buildings but there was no danger to the farm house.

In a statement the fire service said: "In order to protect adjacent farm buildings, the service mobilised eight fire engines – from Devizes, Melksham, Trowbridge (two), Chippenham, Westbury, Marlborough and Ludgershall – supported by an incident command vehicle from Stratton and water carriers from Pewsey and Wilton.

"Because of the significant smoke plume affecting the main road, and the need to park fire appliances outside of the farm’s boundaries, the A342 is currently closed from the bottom of Dunkirk Hill to St Edith’s Marsh.

"Anyone who is worried about the smoke is advised to keep doors and windows closed. People with an existing respiratory condition should seek medical advice if they have a specific concern.

"A multi-agency partnership under the auspices of the Wiltshire and Swindon Local Resilience Forum is monitoring the situation, and every effort will be made to reopen the road as soon as it is safe to do so."