A private Dittisham home, reported to be under construction, has been severely damaged following a major roof fire.

Crews from nine fire stations battled the blaze at the large, detached property last Thursday, January 13, from 2.40pm.

Firefighters said it was a difficult incident due to the home being on a steep slope and conditions being muddy and wet.

It has since been confirmed that 20 per cent of the building was damaged by fire and 50 per cent damaged by water. The cause of the fire was accidental.

Totnes Fire Station said on its Facebook page: "This was a particularly difficult incident due to the nature of the building site being on a steep slope being very muddy and also very wet.

"When crews returned to the station it took a very long time to get the appliance and equipment clean enough to use again along with cleaning of breathing apparatus."

The fire involved the roof of the property and PV solar panels. It was extinguished using six breathing apparatus wearers, four 45 mil jets, one hose reel jet, two 135 ladders and safety at heights equipment

Crews from Dartmouth, Kingsbridge, Totnes, Plympton, Ivybridge, Torquay, Paignton, Brixham and Buckfastleigh were all involved in tackling the blaze.