A Wiltshire canal barge which caught fire overnight has been “completely destroyed and submerged” say police.

The incident occurred on Saturday night as police and firefighters raced to the canal in Devizes to battle a blaze on one of the boats.

As emergency services arrived at the bridge on London Road, the public was turned away and a section of the street between Brickley Lane and the junction of Quakers Road was closed off.

Firefighters battled flames into the night but were unable to save the 60-foot long barge which instead was destroyed and submerged.

Wiltshire Times: The canal boat fire in Devizes.The canal boat fire in Devizes. (Image: Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service)

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It is believed that there were no casualties as a result of the incident.

Late on Saturday night, a Wiltshire Police spokesperson said: “Emergency services are currently at the scene of a significant fire on a canal boat on the Kennet and Avon canal near the London Road bridge in Devizes.

“We are not aware of any casualties and while the cause of the fire has yet to be determined, there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances at this time.

Wiltshire Times: Firefighters attended the blaze (file photo).Firefighters attended the blaze (file photo). (Image: Getty)

“The 60-foot barge has been completely destroyed and is submerged.

“A cordon will be in place overnight and into the following day to allow emergency services to attend.

“The Kennet and Avon canal and the footpath will also be closed until tomorrow at the earliest.

“Please consider alternative routes and expect delays.”