A WARNING has gone out to nearby residents as emergency services tackle a large fire at a derelict barn.

Crews are battling to extinguish the blaze in Broughton Road, Banbury and a large amount of smoke is spreading across parts of the town including the B4035 and the Bretch Hill area.

Thames Valley Police has appealed for information after the fire which it believes was arson.

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The force advised residents to keep their windows closed and avoid the area as they support Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Police also confirmed that nearby residents had to be evacuated as a result of the ongoing fire. 

Video of the scene shows smoke billowing into the air from the derelict building.

It happened about 1.30pm.