AN investigation is under way after firefighters fought for more than hour to save a picturesque Suffolk cottage after its thatched roof caught alight.

Fire crews were called to the cottage in Ipswich Road, Nedging Tye, at just before 6.45pm yesterday.

When they arrived half the building’s roof was alight and crews battled for more than an hour to put out the flames.

The fire caused only minor damage to the building but sections of its thatched roof were destroyed. The owners of the cottage, who alerted fire crews to the blaze, were unharmed but last night declined to comment.

Station Manager Ian Mallett said: “It’s thanks to the prompt actions of our crew members that have prevented the building from deteriorating.

“When we arrived most of the building’s roof was on fire and because it’s thatched there’s always the danger that it could spread quickly.

“Fortunately we’ve been able to contain the fire pretty quickly and eventually put it out all together. The damage to the inside of the building is negligible. However, a number of sections of the roof structure will need replacing.

“The prompt actions of the owners by calling 999 as quickly as possible have also helped the cause. We’re now going to cover the damaged sections of roof with matting to protect the building until it gets repaired.”

Two appliances from Hadleigh, as well as engines from Needham Market, Long Melford, Sudbury, Woodbridge, Stowmarket and four from Ipswich attended.

Crews used a turntable ladder and an operational support unit also attended .The cause of the fire was still being investigated last night.

ken.mcerlain@eadt.co.uk