AN 800-year-old thatched cottage which was destroyed by fire has been restored to its former glory.

On January 5, 2020 more than 60 firefighters tackled the blaze at the cottage in Hartley Wespall, after the thatched roof caught fire.

The fire destroyed most of the thatched roof at Pembroke Cottage despite the efforts of firefighters who tried to save the Grade II listed home.

Now, the roof has been fully restored after the owners submitted a planning application to have the damage caused by the fire repaired.

The application submitted to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council revealed that the central chimney was identified as the cause of the fire.

The plans included installing a new kitchen and to rebuild the chimney.

Redevelopment of the thatched cottage was said to improve fire safety, using a revised Dorset Model, which includes providing a loft hatch.

Harley Wintney fire station celebrated the news of the restoration, posting a tweet saying: “Look at this amazing restoration! The cottage is c1370, around 800 years old.

“Matt Fuller and his colleagues have done a tremendous job bringing the cottage back to its former glory. Bravo fellas, bravo!”