A fire at a private breeder's home has killed 20 dogs. The blaze devastated the house in Graingers Road, Hornsea, East Yorkshire, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service said. A total of 20 Staffordshire bull terriers died in the incident, which was attended by 18 firefighters.

It is understood that the dogs were in cages, and that the fire tore through the wood-structured property while the owners were out on Saturday evening.

Paul Clucas, Humberside Fire Service station manager, said the fire was so developed that nothing could be done to save the dogs by the time the owners returned and discovered the fire. He said they had no reason to suspect an arson attack.

Clucas said the devastation caused to the house was so severe that there was "nothing left of it whatsoever". He said the owners took "great pride" in the dogs and they lived in the property with them.

He added that the firefighters had managed to prevent the fire from spreading to neighbouring properties.

The incident comes after a blaze at Manchester Dogs' Home just over a week ago, which resulted in the deaths of at least 50 dogs. Well-wishers pledged more than £1.2m to the home within 48 hours after the suspected arson attack on 11 September. A 15-year-old boy arrested on suspicion of starting the blaze has since been released on bail.