Fire crews battle 'significant' Devon thatch blaze

Residents in a Devon village have been told to keep windows and doors closed while fire crews battle a "significant" thatched roof blaze.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to the incident in Drewsteignton at about 20:45 GMT on Monday.

A fire service spokesperson said two properties had been affected by the fire, with the roof "well alight".

At its peak, 25 stations from across the region had crews at the scene and in an update at 04:00 on Tuesday the fire service said nine engines were still at the scene as firefighters carried out a "relief strategy".

In the update, the fire service spokesperson added: "There are many fire appliances and resources within the village of Drewsteignton and the public are advised to avoid the area were possible while firefighting activities take place.

"The residents of the area are also advised to close their windows and doors to protect themselves from the smoke plume."

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