WORKMEN carrying out repairs accidentally set fire to the roof of a detached house in Fence.

Flames from a blow torch set fire to insulation or dry wood and despite efforts by workmen to put out the blaze, the fire spread through the roof void causing extensive damage.

Three fire engines and a turntable ladder were called to the house in Hoarstones Avenue as flames and smoke leapt from the roof high into the air.

Sub-officer Shaun Naughton, of Nelson fire station, said: "The roof has been severely damaged by the heat and smoke and debris has fallen from it into a first floor bedroom.

"The roofing contractors were working on a flat roof with a blowtorch and it has set fire to either some insulation or dry wood. They tried to put it out but the fire spread too quickly."

The owners, Lloyd and Elsie Tempest, were not at home when the fire broke out.

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