More than 60 firefighters have been scrambled to battle a fierce fire ripping through a thatched cottage on Viables Lane, Basingstoke this afternoon. Thick smoke billows high, casting a dark shadow over the town and is visible for miles.
Emergency crews are working tirelessly to bring the inferno under control. Police have shut down both Jays Close and Viables Lane, urging residents to avoid the scene as road closures remain in place.
Firefighters are supported by ambulance and police teams, while a large crane towers above the site, helping tackle the blaze from all angles.
Local residents are reeling from the incident. Michelle Hemchaoui, a former local, said: “Depressing really, I’ve seen that thatched cottage for over 20 years. It’s kind of devastating to see it on fire. Flames are still poking out the top. If it weren’t for the fire service, the fire could have easily spread.”
Fire crews are using compressed air foam and jets to douse the raging flames. No injuries have been reported so far, but ambulance and police remain on site as a precaution.
The nearby Golden Lion pub has closed for the day amid safety concerns. Residents who were initially evacuated have now been allowed to return home.
The fire is expected to burn well into the night as crews continue to battle stubborn hotspots.
Originally published by UKNIP.
