MORE than 50 firefighters tackled a blaze in Barkway on Tuesday night which resulted in the collapse of two roofs. The incident happened at about 11pm in the High Street after a homeowner noticed there was a fire in his roof. The fire quickly spread to a

MORE than 50 firefighters tackled a blaze in Barkway on Tuesday night which resulted in the collapse of two roofs.

The incident happened at about 11pm in the High Street after a homeowner noticed there was a fire in his roof.

The fire quickly spread to a neighbouring property and as a result both roofs, one thatch and one tiled, were destroyed.

The fire also affected a third adjoining property which was damaged by smoke.

Fortunately, four residents who occupied both premises at the time of the incident escaped unharmed.

Pippa Jameson and Daisey Dowler, of High Street, who lived opposite the buildings, provided 40 rounds of bacon sandwiches for firemen and distressed neighbours.

They said: "We heard some shouting outside. It was a really distressed scream.

"We ran outside and realised the house opposite us was on fire.

"It went up so quickly, but the firefighters were amazing in terms of how quick they put it out."

Firefighters will be carrying out an investigation into the cause of the fire.

Pete Chapman, of Royston Fire Station, said: "It was a big and serious fire.

"The firefighters worked extremely hard to stop it.

"This incident highlights the need for fire safety and we will be working in the area for the next couple of days to make sure people are safe. We will be offering free safety checks, information and advice."

Station officer Peter Hill added: "We believe the fire started accidentally and we are now trying to establish the exact cause."

An onlooker said: "The firefighters have been remarkable to save the other properties."

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue is currently taking part in a regional safety campaign to promote safety guidelines for people whose homes have thatched roofs.