FIRE crews from Newton Abbot, Ashburton, Bovey Tracey, Teignmouth and Buckfastleigh are involved in fighting a major fire at a thatched property in Shiphay this evening (Tuesday).

Fire control has received multiple calls to the thatch fire in Torquay.

A spokesperson said: ‘We have 12 appliances, multiple supporting/specialists appliances and officers on scene. Crews have confirmed this building is well alight and this information will be updated regularly.’

By 9pm Fire control reported that the fire is ongoing.

‘12 engines remain at the scene and as many as 20 engines were present at the scene at around 8pm.

‘Specialist apparatus including breathing equipment, an aeriel ladder platform and a compressed airfoam lance, especially for thatched properties, have been in use.’