Thatched Roof Blaze Sparks Massive Fire Crew Response in Durley
Twelve fire engines roaring into action saved a thatched cottage in Durley from a devastating inferno last Friday. More than 60 firefighters battled the blaze to stop it spreading across the roof.
Swift Action Stops Fire Spreading
The alarm was raised shortly before 8.10pm at a property on Parsonage Lane. Fire crews from across the region – including Hightown, Eastleigh, Romsey, and Winchester – sped to the scene. Thick smoke pouring from the chimney sparked immediate concern.
Firefighters wasted no time. Using foam sprayed from an aerial ladder, they created fire breaks to halt the flames creeping over the dry thatch.
Firefighters Praise Fire Retardant Liner for Saving Home
By 9.30pm, the fire was confined to the chimney breast and under control. Fire crews removed all affected thatch to prevent reignition and began scaling back by 10.30pm. The last crew left the station after a final 4am inspection.
Group Manager Mark Woods: “Thatch fires usually spread fast and devastate whole buildings, but thankfully this time it didn’t. The fire retardant liner beneath the thatch protected the roof timbers and helped limit damage to just the area around the spark.”
Chimney Spark Sparked the Scare
The blaze is believed to have been caused by a spark escaping the chimney and landing on the thatch. Quick response and preventive measures stopped disaster in its tracks, preserving the historic village home.
