FIREFIGHTERS are currently battling a house blaze which has engulfed the whole of a thatched roof.

Crews from across Suffolk and south Norfolk have been called to the property in Southolt Road, Worlingworth, at 3.10pm.

Initially crews from Stradbroke, Debenham, Diss, and Harleston in Norfolk were called, alongside two support pumps are also in attendance.

However, after arriving at the scene they requested further assistance and eight crews are now attempting to bring the incident under control.

The whole of the roof has been engulfed in flames.

Wearing six sets of breathing apparatus, firefighters are using main jets and hose reel jets to battle the fire.

By 4.40pm another two pumps was requested, taking the total to ten.

Artificial lighting has been deployed and is in use to help crews carry out salvage operations.

A spokesperson for the fire service said that UK Power Networks were isolating the power, while police officers are managing the traffic in the surrounding area.

A spokeswoman for UK Power Networks said: “On arrival we had to isolate power to a further five customers nearby so our engineers can work in safety.

“We would like to reassure those customers that we are working as quickly as is possible to restore their power and apologise for any inconvenience.”

At 6pm, crews reported that good progress was being made on striping the thatch and salvage on the first floor of the property was now complete.

Firefighters are expected to remain at the scene for much of tonight. With fire breaks currently in place, progress is being made.