POLICE have arrested two people in connection to a fire at the derelict property, Poltimore House, near Exeter.
Officers were notified of the fire overnight between Monday, April 8 and Tuesday, April 9 and later attended to assist the fire service.
The cause of the fire was deemed to be suspicious, and an emergency service presence has remained at the scene.
On Wednesday, April 10, two teenage boys, aged 14 and 16, were arrested on suspicion of arson.
They have been released on police bail until July 4, while enquiries are ongoing.
Devon and Cornwall Police would like to thank the public for their assistance so far in this matter.
Anyone with information, who has not yet spoken to police, is asked to report it via the police website or call 101, quoting occurrence number 50240083403.
Ten fire crews, from Torquay, Danes Castle (Exeter), Crediton, Cullompton, Honiton, Ottery St Mary, Sidmouth, Ivybridge, Middlemoor (Exeter) and Bridgwater fought the blaze.
CROWDFUNDER STARTED
Following the devastating fire The Poltimore House Trust has started a Crowdfunder appeal to raise funds.
A spokesperson for the Trust said: “We are absolutely devastated that Poltimore House suffered a major fire in the early hours of April 9 with extensive damage to the house in a suspected arson attack.
“Over the past couple of years, the House and Grounds have become a major hub for our local community with a farm shop, thriving cafe, open house sessions and events – all supported by dedicated volunteers.”
Dr Peter Totterdill, Chair of Poltimore House Trust, added: "This amazing place has been loved by so many people over the years, and our heart goes out to all the many volunteers who have worked so hard to protect and restore Poltimore House. Everyone at Poltimore House Trust is shocked at the scale of the devastation.
"We know that many people love Poltimore House and Grounds and are distraught by what has happened and we are all feeling a deep sense of loss.
"However, we are determined to save what we can of this important part of Devon’s heritage, and to hold on to our vision of Poltimore House and Grounds as a place for everyone.
"More than ever, we need everyone’s help to recover from this disaster and to move forward with optimism.”
The spokesperson added: “Please support our Poltimore House Emergency Fundraising Appeal so that we can clear up after the fire damage and make the site safe and accessible so we can welcome visitors again.
To donate, visit: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/poltimore-house-fire-appeal .