A FIRE which started in a Barnstaple factory early this morning was caused by a chip pan.

Firefighters were called to Parker Hannifin Ltd at Pottington Business Park at 7.30am.

A Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "The shift has just started, they went in and turned on the electricity and a chip pan left on a stove in a kitchen had heated up."

He added: "It was only a small fire and it was out by the time the crew arrived."

Firefighters inspected the area before leaving half an hour later.