Pictures show the aftermath of thatch fire in East Lambrook

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service were called at at 12.11pm today (March 13) to a residential property in East Lambrook near South Petherton following repeated reports from residents that a thatched property was on fire. 

Multiple fire engines rushed to the incident along with an aerial ladder platform and a water carrier.

Police have closed Silver Street while firefighters battle the fire. 

RELATED LINK: Residents advised to close windows after huge fire breaks out in East Lambrook 

Incident commander, Marc House, said: "We were called at 12.11pm to a thatched roof fire, at its height there were 10 fire engines, two water carriers and an aerial ladder platform with crews attending from across Somerset and some from Dorset too.

"On arrival the thatched roof was well alight and there was a significant fire within the property.

"We fought the fire and we have been undertaking a salvage operation to save as many of the occupants belongings as possible.

"The incident is ongoing but it is scaling down."

Six fire engines and a command unit remain at the scene and two water units are being sent to the incident. 

Residents in the local area and schools are being advised to keep all windows closed due to a large amount of smoke. 

Mark Stainer, head gardener at East Lambrook Manor Gardens, said: "It must be devastating for them. 

"It is a big part of the village as everyone sees it, it is right next to the garden and close to the pub. 

"It was a very beautiful cottage."

The incident commander thanked firefighters for their hard work. 

"I would like to thank all the crews who have worked incredibly hard, and thank the public for their patience while we deal with the incident.

"Our thoughts are with the owner of the property and we are working with them to try and establish the cause of the fire.

"The cordon will remain in place while we resolve the final part of the incident."