MORE than 70 firefighters tackled a blaze which destroyed the roof of a thatched cottage in the New Forest.

Daily Echo:

Picture by Simon Rowley 

Twelve crews were called to Little Thatch in Ringwood Road, North Gorley to tackle flames which were threatening to engulf the property.

Daily Echo:

Picture by Simon Rowley 

Crews from across Hampshire were involved in the incident, which started at 7.11pm last night in the village, near Fordingbridge.

Daily Echo:

Picture by Simon Rowley 

Engines and support vehicles, including the aerial ladder platform, were involved.

Daily Echo:

Picture by Simon Rowley 

Firefighters used six jets, six sets of breathing apparatus and foam. The roof of the cottage was destroyed by the fire.

Daily Echo:

Picture by Roger Bushnell

The fire was out by 1am and crews remained on the scene.