TWELVE fire engines were sent to a pub in Somerset yesterday after its thatched roof caught alight and was destroyed.

Crews arrived to quell the flames at the 300-year-old Kingsdon Inn, Kingsdon at about 11.30am.

Dozens of people dialled 999 after spotting the flames leaping from the top of the building.

Initially, eight fire engines from Somerton, Martock, Ilminster, Yeovil, Street and Glastonbury were sent, plus a command support unit from Street and water carrier from Yeovil.

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, said: "The fire could be seen in the distance before the first appliance arrived on scene.

"On arrival, crews confirmed the thatched roof was well alight and begun extinguishing with two hose reel jets.

"There were six breathing apparatus wearers undertaking salvage operations in the property, and crews also confirmed the fire had broken through the roof. A hydraulic platform was also requested at this time and Taunton's was mobilised."

At 12.30pm, four more fire engines from Yeovil, Crewkerne, Castle Cary and Wincanton were sent to the blazing pub.

Soon after, support units arrived from Taunton and Yeovil.

The road was closed by the Highways Agency and a spokesman said it would remained closed for three to four days.