Firefighters from Ashby Station were on the scene as a Coalville home was set on fire by a lightning strike in the early hours of this morning.

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service battled the blaze throughout the night at the home in Ashby Road - with seven vehicles from across Leicestershire being called in to the area.

Photos issued this morning show the extent of the fire which threatened to spread to other houses.

Overnight thunderstorms hit the area during the night - with this property struck by lightning at around 1am.

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service posted on social media today and said: "This morning we attended a house fire that had been caused by a lightning strike.

"Coalville Fire and Rescue Service, Ashby Station and Birstall Station tackled the blaze throughout the night to stop it spreading to neighbouring properties."

More details emerged later from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service: "Initial Emergency Call Received: 01:16

"Fire and Rescue Service Vehicles Attended: two fire engines from Coalville, one fire engine from Ashby, one fire engine from Loughborough, one Command Support Vehicle from Shepshed, one Aerial Ladder Platform from Birstall, Incident Support Unit from Oakham

"Call received reporting lightning had struck roof of the property which had caught fire.

"First Impression message confirmed the house was well alight.

"Two breathing apparatus committed and Aerial Ladder Platform requested.

"Make up to four pumps for personnel and water for Aerial Ladder Platform.

"Confirmed property involved in fire due to being struck by lightning.

"Fire confined to loft space. Four Breathing Apparatus, two Hose Reels, one main jet and short extension ladder in use.

"Incident Support Unit requested for salvage and sheeting."