FIREFIGHTERS worked overnight to bring under control the fire at the Jolly Sailor in East Ogwell that began yesterday afternoon.

Fire control confirmed it received calls for a thatch roof fire at a pub in Ogwell at just after 4.30pm.

A spokesperson said: ‘Fire crews from Newton Abbot, Torquay, Ashburton, Paignton, Bovey Tracey, Teignmouth were mobilised alongside the water carrier and aerial platform ladder from Torquay, the command unit from Totnes and the welfare unit from Ivybridge.’

‘Upon arrival crews confirmed this was a thatch property approximately 20 metres by 10 metres fully involved in fire.

Overnight updates included:

Update at 20:00

Crews are surrounding the property and have made good progress – earlier they were able to enter the building to salvage items of value, but now the fire has progressed we are fighting the fire from outside only due to risk of building collapse.

‘There are a number of fire pockets inside where the fire has dropped down from the roof.

‘We are continuing to remove the thatch where possible to reduce the amount of flammable material.

‘We have sprayed surrounding properties with compressed air foam which helps to protect from flying embers from the fire (there are a number of other thatched properties in the area).

‘We currently have 12 appliances at the scene, including an aerial platform.

Update at 22:30

‘Steady progress still being made removing thatch and dampening down hotspots. Relief crews are now arriving on scene from Modbury, Chagford, Tiverton, Plympton and Clyst st George.

‘Some resources are being scaled back however we will remain at the incident overnight.

Steve Reynolds, chairman of Ogwell Parish Council, said: ’This is extremely sad, the Jolly Sailor is the heart of the village.

’It’s particularly gutting as the pub, of course, had only just re-opened on April 12.

’We are really sorry for licensees John and Amanda.’