A HOUSE suffered severe damage when it was struck by lightning in storms yesterday afternoon.

Firefighters from Sturminster Newton and Sherborne were called to Templecombe at 3.40pm.

They discovered serious damage to the roof and gaping holes in a ceiling and wall.

They were joined at the scene by crews from Wincanton who found the property smoke-logged on arrival.

A spokesman for Sherborne fire station said: "Crews from Wincanton and Sturminster Newton used a nine metre ladder and roof ladder to get better access to the roof for inspection and check for any fire damage and spread.

"At this point a key holder arrived on scene and helped with access to the property. Crews inspected the property and made sure the property was deemed safe and checked for further damage."

The property was empty as tenants had moved out last weekend.