PICTURES showing the devastation of a fire which could have been caused by a lightning strike in Wareham have been published.

Crews from Swanage Fire Station were among around 50 firefighters who were sent to Stoborough Meadow at around 10.15pm on Sunday night after reports of a blaze in semi-detached thatched homes.

Nine crews from across the area were on the scene at the height of the blaze, which spread from one property to a neighbour, badly damaging both homes.

A Swanage Fire Station spokesperson said: “All crews worked hard throughout the night with relief crews continuing into the morning.

“Due to the severity of the fire, unfortunately, the properties could not be saved.

“No residents were injured in the fire and our thoughts are with them after this devastating fire.”

READ MORE: Around 50 firefighters tackle blaze at thatched homes in Wareham

Firefighters said the homes ‘could not be saved’. Picture: Swanage Fire Station

The fire, in thatched cottages, may have been started by a lightning strike. Picture: Swanage Fire Station