DEVON and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (DSFRS) has said it is ‘devastated’ at the loss of two firefighters and a member of the public following a large fire in Oxfordshire.

Two firefighters and a member of the public have died following a large fire at a former RAF base in Oxfordshire.

‘We are devastated to hear of the loss of two firefighters and a member of the public’ a DSFRS spokesperson said.

‘Our thoughts are with the family, friends and colleagues of those who have sadly lost their lives’ the spokesperson added.

Two others firefighters are in hospital with serious injuries.

‘We are also thinking of the injured firefighters who are recovering

‘Our hearts go out to our colleagues at Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (Official) - we are in mourning with you’ the spokesperson added.

In response, the fire service says it will be flying flags at half-mast across its service area today. Friday, May 16.

Newton Abbot Fire Station has also shared its condolences.

‘All of us here at Newton Abbot fire station are truly saddened by their loss, and its incidents like these that bring into perspective the risks we may have to face when protecting our local communities’ the station said.