A BLAZE at Ivybridge's abandoned Stowford Mill was started deliberately, according to police and the fire service.

A fire engine from Ivybridge was called to the site just after 5am on Monday morning.

Upon arrival the crew found a strong smell and smoke coming from an outbuilding at the site, where a boat that was being stored had been set alight.

They immediately set about trying to extinguish the fire, but soon had to call for help.

Two more fire engines from Plympton and Modbury were sent to the scene, along with an aerial ­platform from Crownhill fire station in Plymouth and an incident ­command unit from Totnes.

By shortly after 6.30am the fire had been extinguished and firemen were damping down the area.

Sector inspector for Ivybridge and Kingsbridge Adrian Leisk said it was 'no secret' that youths frequently entered the abandoned paper mill, which ceased operation in 2013.

He said: 'It appears that a group of young people have got onto the site, as they have done on previous occasions.

'In fact, earlier last night we went in and removed some children who'd got in, and we've made arrests in the past. We're seeking a conversation with the developer to do something about it.

'We're also investigating a ­burglary, where a laptop was stolen from one of the offices.'

Plans for an ambitious mixed-use development of the Stowford Mill site, to include a range of housing

as well as commercial space, are ­currently out for consultation.