Machinery, worth hundreds of thousands of euros, has been destroyed in a major fire at a contractor's yard in Co. Roscommon.

The blaze broke out in the sheds of Pat Lavin Plant Hire, an agricultural contracting business, located in Mullen, just outside Roscommon, in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Gardai from Castlerea; and fire brigades from Boyle and Ballaghaderreen; battled the blaze through the night - from approximately 1:00am until 8:00am on Sunday morning.

A man was brought to hospital after suffering smoke inhalation and burns from trying to save the machinery from the flames.

However, the man has since been discharged.

It is understood that five New Holland tractors, a silage baler and other machinery were destroyed in the fire.

Gardai are investigating the cause of the blaze; however, it is believed that is was not started maliciously.

Useful tips to help prevent fires

According to the Health and Safety Authority, the safest way to deal with fire is to prevent it. Here are some useful tips to reduce the risk of your tractor or machinery catching fire.