Three families were made homeless when a fire spread through three thatched cottages in High Street, Codford, yesterday evening.

Firefighters remained in the village all night and by this morning the blaze had been put out.

No-one was injured in the blaze which started just before 5pm.

Ten crews from stations across the county battled the fire and were praised by villagers who set up a table to serve refreshments to the crews.

Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Command support manager Ade Hurren reported on Twitter at 3am: “Out at Codford as relief officer but will be here some time yet.”

Earlier the a fire service spokesman said: “We are working very hard to try to save the thatch in Codford. There are now around 10 pumps, a control wagon, and damage control vehicle.”