A 'BEAUTIFUL' thatched cottage which dramatically went up in flames last week will not be demolished, it has been confirmed.

The home, which sits in the centre of East Lambrook, near South Petherton, was severly damaged following the fire, on March 13.

Smoke was first seen coming from the building shortly after noon and quickly escalated to a thick plume that resulted in the fire service warning local homes and schools to keep their windows closed.

At its height, around 70 firefighters were at the scene trying to keep the fire at bay.

Following the fire, signs saying 'demolition site' and 'danger, demolition, keep out' were erected.

Scaffolding to support the remaining walls and small, temporary road closures have also been put in place.

Now, a spokesman for South Somerset District Council has confirmed that the building will not be coming down as it is listed.

The spokesman said: "Our building control team were initially called to inspect the building following the fire and ordered some work to be undertaken to make the building more secure and less of a danger to the public.

"This was agreed with the conservation officer. The building is a Listed Building and therefore will not be demolished.

"The conservation officer is already in contact with the loss adjuster and the appointed architect.

"Any works in the future to rebuild will need to have consent due to the buildings Listed Building status."

Chard & Ilminster News:

Firefighters were on the scene for two days as crews stayed to damp down the fire, although access was limited by the damaged structure of the old building.

Following the fire, 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 cause of the fire is believed to be accidental.