Devon villagers devastated over thatch roof fire

Residents in a Devon village say they have been left "devastated" after a "significant thatch fire" affecting two properties.

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

A spokesperson for The Drewe Arms Community Pub, located opposite to the blaze, said on Facebook: "The whole community will rally around all those involved."

They added: "The village is devastated and our hearts go out to our residents affected. It's truly tragic."

At its peak, 25 stations from across the region had crews at the scene.

On Monday night, the fire service had advised on social media: "If you are in the vicinity, keep your windows and doors closed."

A spokesperson for the pub said on Facebook: "The wind took hold and the fire quickly spread across the thatched terrace.

"Simon our landlord and Ian from the pub team were there to provide tea and refreshments to the team throughout the night."

An update from the fire service published at 08:00 on Tuesday said the incident had been scaled back to five fire appliances, which were "continuing to make good progress stripping away the remaining thatch to ensure there is no fire spread".

Follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].