A MAN told how 50 firefighters tackled a blaze that ripped through the thatched roof of his cottage.

Andrew Atkinson, 40, an assembler, said fire spread quickly through the thatched roof of his brick and flint home in the hamlet of Winterborne Tomson, near Bere Regis.

He explained “It was a bit chilly so we thought we’d get the wood- burner going. I went into the shower, but about 10 minutes later my neighbour was banging on the door, shouting, ‘Your house is on fire.’ “I got out pretty quick.”

Firefighters were alerted at 8.30pm when Mr Atkinson’s mother, Ann, aged in her early 70s, dialled 999.

Mr Atkinson said his mother had lived in the cottage for 23 years and had been “pretty shaken up” by the experience.

Ten fire engines dashed to the scene.

Up to 50 firefighters donned breathing apparatus before tackling the blaze with high-pressure hoses, and cutting breaks in the roof to prevent the fire spreading.

Mr Atkinson praised firefighters for their quick response and for saving so much of the property.

He said he and his mother would live in another cottage nearby while repairs were made.