Crews from Lyme and Charmouth drafted in to help save thatched cottage

FIREFIGHTERS from across West Dorset – including Lyme Regis and Charmouth - battled to save a thatched cottage last night (Wednesday).

Ten crews took part in the operation at East Bexington, near Abbotsbury.

At the height of the incident there were around 50 firefighters and a water carrier on the scene.

They used hose reel jets and main lines to extinguish the blaze.

Incident Commander, Group Manager Craig Baker said: “Crews worked extremely hard to extinguish this fire which affected the entire roof. Water supply in this location was difficult and crews have implemented a water shuttle system alongside using our water carrier.

Fire Investigation Officer, Station Manager Dave Myers said: “I believe this fire started in the chimney. Chimney fires can be prevented if all the right precautions are taken. Having your chimney swept is vital.“