FIRE chiefs have advised owners of thatched cottages to fit a smoke alarm in the roof space after a property in Penstone, near Colebrooke, was severely damaged by fire this week.

More than 100 firefighters from across the county tackled the blaze at Redlands, a 17th Century Grade II listed cottage on Monday.

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A passing motorist alerted the owners, John and Marguerite Lee, that smoke was coming from the roof and they called the fire service just before 5pm.

Eight fire appliances, an incident command vehicle, an aerial ladder platform, a hose laying lorry and water bowser were sent, together with crews from Crediton, North Tawton, Exeter, Chagford, Moretonhampstead, Witheridge, Exmouth and Honiton.

They were joined by others from Tiverton, Chulmleigh, Bampton, Ottery and Dawlish.