Fire damages thatched roof of Hampshire home
The quick response of fire crews from across Hampshire prevented a thatched house fire from taking hold, limiting damage to just the roof
Last updated 26th Mar 2022
Crews were called to Parsonage Lane in Durley shortly before 20:10 on Friday (March 25).
At the height of the incident more than 60 firefighters were in attendance.
Crews from Hightown, Eastleigh, St Mary’s, Romsey, Bishop’s Waltham, Portchester, Botley, Fareham, Winchester, Droxford, Fareham and Cosham were called to the property.
Smoke could be seen coming from the roof near to the chimney and firefighters created fire breaks, using foam sprayed from an aerial ladder, to quickly prevent the flames from spreading.
By 21:30 the fire had been isolated to the chimney breast area and was under control.
Group Manager Mark Woods said: “Thatch roof fires have the potential to spread rapidly and are usually very difficult to extinguish. Sadly, many homes are destroyed once a fire takes hold in a thatched property so we are really pleased to say that in this case, that hasn’t happened.
“The property had a fire retardant liner underneath, effectively protecting the roof timbers and the rest of the house. That’s made a huge difference and, along with some really fast and effective firefighting from our crews, it has meant the damage has been limited to just the roof area around the initial ignition.”A reinspection of the property is due to take place on Saturday morning.
The cause of the fire is believed to have been from a spark leaving the chimney and landing on the thatch.