1000 guinea pigs burn to death

A fire in southern England has killed over 1000 guinea pigs, rabbits and rats.

Police are investigating whether the fire at a pet breeding centre was arson, according to the Sun newspaper.

Four barns were destroyed in the blaze in Little Cholwell, Okehampton, which was so intense that firefighters were unable to save any animals.

"The fire has resulted in the death of over 1,000 animals, mostly believed to be guinea pigs," police told the Sun

"The cause of the fire has not been established and fire and police investigators are in the process of conducting investigation and inquiries."

- NZ HERALD STAFF