DEVON and Somerset Fire Service responded to reports of a property fire at Fishleigh, near Hatherleigh at around 2.30pm on Saturday, February 4.

Fire appliances from Hatherleigh, Okehampton, North Tawton, Torrington (for compressed foam air systems), Chumleigh, Holsworthy and Bideford, together with a water foam carrier from Barnstaple, the aerial ladder platform from Danes Castle Exeter, the hose layer from Tavistock and the incident command unit — with supporting appliance from Ilfracombe — attended the blaze at the one storey detached private property, which had a thatched roof, measuring 24 metres by 10 metres, and a mezzanine floor.

Western Power were also present, isolating the power supply to the property.

Upon arrival, crews found the thatched roof of the property to be well alight around the chimney, and were at work with two breathing apparatus wearers and two hose reel jets.

At around 2.50pm crews requested a further two fire appliances from Appledore and Bideford, together with a compressed air foam systems appliance and a second water bowser from Danes Castle Exeter, whilst police were asked to close the road as a matter of urgency.

See this week's edition of the 'Post' for the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport.