More than 20 firefighters from Basingstoke were called to prevent an inferno at a hotel spreading last night as guests were evacuated.

Five fire crews from Basingstoke, Tadley, Kingsclere and Rushmoor were sent to help their colleagues in Berkshire tackle a major blaze which has seen part of the hotel collapse.

About 230 guests were evacuated from the blaze at the Wokefield Park hotel, which is part of the De Vere group.

Flames started at about 5.30pm in a ground floor linen area and spread to the roof.

The hotel, made up of an 18th Century building and modern executive centre, sits in 250 acres of land and has a championship golf course.

Twelve fire engines from across Berkshire were initially called to the hotel, near Mortimer which is near Silchester.

They were soon joined by about 25 fire fighters from four stations in Hampshire – two crews from Basingstoke, and one each from Tadley, Kingsclere and Rushmoor along with an aerial ladder platform – were dispatched later as the fire grew.

No one was hurt in the blaze but around 230 guests and conference visitors were evacuated and the flames caused severe damage to the venue but crews on the ground say parts of the building are likely to collapse.

A spokesman from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said the fire is still ongoing more than 12 hours later and crews from neighbouring fire stations are providing cover in Basingstoke and the area.

A spokesman for South Central Ambulance said there were no reported casualties.

Were you at the hotel last night? Do you have a wedding planned to take place at the hotel? Get in touch on 01256 337410.