FIRE chiefs are offering every thatched property in Dorset a free safety check following two devastating blazes in the county.

Firefighters fought major thatch blazes at East Bexington near Abbotsbury and Winterborne Tomson, near Bere Regis.

A fire service spokesman said: “As part of our commitment to reduce deaths and injuries caused by accidental fires in the home the service provides free home safety checks.

“These involve a member of staff visiting homes and fitting or replacing smoke alarms, giving advice on the use of candles, unattended cooking, electric blankets, overloading sockets, chimneys, low energy light bulbs and more.”

Call 0800 038 2323 free and leave a message stating you have a thatch property in order claim your check.