Great Shefford blaze aftermath

The blaze broke out around 6.40pm and fire crews worked throughout the night in snow and freezing conditions.
Crews from Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Wiltshire were dispatched and, at the height of the fire, nine fire engines and two water carriers were in use.
The fire led to the temporary closure of the Wantage road but no one was reported to have been hurt.
This morning, bales of charred thatch were piled high on the verge opposite the stricken Lilac Cottage as the distraught owners moved belongings from the remains of their home.
Charred roof timbers stuck out like ribs and by 9.30am Red Watch commander Bob Mitchell was handing over to White Watch, who continued to ensure the fire would not restart.