FIREFIGHTERS and the police are at the scene of a blaze in a two-storey thatched property in Ilton, near Ilminster.

There have been no reported injuries. There were 19 fire engines in attendance at the height of the fire.

Church Road remains closed as the emergency services are still at the scene. Frost Lane is open for access into and out of the village.

A Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service spokesperson said: “The incident started at 10.22am this morning in a two-storey thatched property.

“All people inside the property have evacuated and crews are doing all they can to save as much of the property as possible and prevent the fire escalating. 

“We had 19 fire engines in attendance at the height of the fire. We used three hose reel jets and 12 safety jets, six breathing apparatus, one fog spike and a thatching lance to create a fire break.

“The incident is ongoing so please avoid the area if you can.”

A police spokesperson said: “We're supporting the fire service with an incident in Ilton. There are no reported injuries.

“Church Road is shut so please seek alternative routes. Electricity supplies for several properties has been affected so a rest centre is open at the village hall.”

Ilton Parish Council has opened the village hall and switched the heating on for residents who may need it. There are hot drinks and biscuits available.

The council has asked residents that have not been affected by the situation to consider opening their homes to people who may need warm shelter.

It expects power will be restored between 5pm and 7pm and “reviewed after that time”.