TWELVE fire crews of around 60 firefighters are currently tackling a fire at a thatched-roofed home in Gillingham.

A fire was first reported at around 2.15 pm and crews are still working to strip away the thatch and extinguish the fire.

Four roads have been closed whilst the operation continues.

Firefighters have said the road could remain closed until tomorrow morning

A spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue said: "We were called to a detached property in Langham Lane, Gillingham at 2.15 pm today (January 8) after a fire broke out in the thatched roof.

"We have 12 fire crews in attendance (approx. 60 firefighters), from Gillingham, Wincanton, Shaftesbury (x2), Mere, Sturminster Newton, Tisbury, Salisbury, Sherborne (x2), Castle Cary and Yeovil, together with the aerial ladder platform from Salisbury, water carriers from Yeovil and Wilton, and support appliances from Gillingham, Salisbury and Ferndown.

"Crews are working hard to strip away the thatch and extinguish the fire, which has taken hold within the roof space. The occupants are safely outside and a salvage operation is underway to bring their possessions to safety.

"Langham Lane, Dry Lane, Tinkers Lane and Moor Lane have been closed while the firefighting operation continues, which is likely to be through the evening and possibly into the morning, so local residents are asked to avoid the area."

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said: "At 2.23pm on Monday January 8, Dorset Police received a report of a fire at a property in Langham Lane in Gillingham.

"Officers and the local authority were in attendance to assist with road closures. No further police assistance was required and the incident was dealt with by the fire service."