Fire Tears Through Historic Thatch Cottages Near Fareham
A devastating blaze tore through two 18th-century thatched cottages in Lower Foyle, near Fareham, sparking a huge firefighting effort and leaving the owner heartbroken.
150 Firefighters Battle Blaze in Freezing Temps
More than 120 firefighters from Hampshire and neighbouring Surrey rushed to the scene just after 4pm on Thursday. They brought 13 fire engines, an aerial ladder from Basingstoke, and support vehicles to tackle the flames.
Braving freezing temperatures, crews pumped water from a nearby pond to battle the stubborn fire ripping through the historic properties.
Owner ‘Gutted’ but Glad Everyone is Safe
Gordon Mitchell, 71, who has lived in one of the cottages for four years, watched in tears as his home was devastated.
“I’m gutted, very upset a lot of history has been lost, but the main thing is everyone is alright,” said Mitchell from the scene.
Fire Sparked by Wood Burner
Investigations suggest the blaze was sparked when a spark from lighting a wood-burning stove ignited the thatched roof.
The two old cottages, a cherished local landmark, suffered severe damage as huge plumes of smoke billowed across the village.
