Lightning strike sets Devon house ablaze

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-27746883

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A house in Devon has been badly damaged in a fire caused by a lightning strike.

The property on North Road in South Molton was hit by the lightning bolt at 04:30 BST and several fire crews and support teams were sent to the scene.

Firefighters say parts of the first floor and roof are still on fire but steady progress is being made to bring the blaze under control.

David Bartlett from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue said the property had been evacuated.

He said: "The building was struck by lightning which caused a fire in the roof space. The fire took hold and affected the roof; it was severely damaged but we hope it is just the roof space.

"It is not common for a fire to break out after a house being struck by lightning - it was unlucky it took hold and ignited something flammable."