Pictures: Newton Abbot firefighters battle major blaze at Paignton station

Fire crews from across Devon tackled a major fire at Paignton railway station after flames and smoke spread through part of the building.

Newton Abbot Fire Station said its crews were called to support the incident on Tuesday as part of a request for additional fire appliances.

On arrival, firefighters found smoke and flames coming from the station building, with crews wearing breathing apparatus working to bring the blaze under control.

Newton Abbot crews were assigned to sector three, covering the steam railway line side of the station, including the footbridge and other buildings at risk.

The station said firefighters used 51mm attack jets, ceiling hooks and reciprocating saws to help suppress the fire and check for hidden fire spread within the roof.

In a statement shared after the incident, Newton Abbot Fire Station said: "All the crews that attended worked tirelessly in hot, arduous conditions to bring the fire under control."

It added that at least one fire appliance remained at the scene to continue checking debris and ensuring any remaining hotspots were extinguished.

The fire service also thanked Gilpin Demolition Group for using plant machinery to help firefighters access parts of the damaged roof, and Hallett's The Bakers for providing food donations for crews.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service images from the incident have been made available for use with credit.

The blaze caused significant damage to part of the station building and led to disruption to rail services.

British Transport Police confirmed that three boys, aged 13, 15 and 16, were arrested on suspicion of arson following the fire.

The force said the boys were arrested in the Paignton area on Tuesday evening and later released on conditional bail while enquiries continued.

There were no reports of injuries.

Great Western Railway said services to Paignton were affected, with passengers advised to check before travelling while inspections and recovery work continued.

The fire service said Newton Abbot crews had attended four separate incidents during what was described as a busy day for the station's firefighters.

Further updates on the investigation and railway repairs are expected from the relevant authorities.