SMOKE from cladding at a Suffolk thatched cottage caught the roof alight today.The small fire at the property at The Green, Hartest, near Long Melford, was reported at 9.

SMOKE from cladding at a Suffolk thatched cottage caught the roof alight today.

The small fire at the property at The Green, Hartest, near Long Melford, was reported at 9.32am and extinguished by 10.03pm.

Four crews of firefighters from Long Melford, Clare and Sudbury arrived but only one hose was needed.

The house was unoccupied although it is believed workmen were at the premises.