Emergency services tackled a large fire that affected a row of houses and caused a roof to collapse in Hemel Hempstead.

Herts Fire Control tweeted that it received multiple 999 calls at around 5.22am this morning (April 9) to reports that a roof was well alight on Thumpers.

Eight engines rushed to the scene where crews tackled the blaze, which the fire service said was affecting a row of terraced houses.

HFC tweeted: "1/2- 05:22 - Control received multiple 999 calls to roof well alight on Thumpers, Hemel. Crews were sent from @GreenWatchHH & @KL_FireStation. On arrival, further appliances were requested. We have 8 appliances in attendance from @Redbournfire @StAlbansfire & @BerkhamstedFire...

"2/2 - as well as our Aerial Ladder Platform from @FireWatford and our Drone from @fire_PottersBar. This is a row of terraced houses now affected by fire with a roof collapse. Fortunately no persons involved. Crews still busy tackling the blaze and will be on scene for some time."

A police spokeswoman said: "Police were called by the fire service at around 5.30am today (Friday 9 April) to request assistance at the scene of a fire in Thumpers, Hemel Hempstead.

"Road closures are currently in place and people are asked to please avoid the area at this time."

A fire service spokesman said: "On arrival, fire crews found a terraced house with the first floor and roof well alight.

"Firefighters evacuated neighbouring properties as the fire was spreading to them through the roof.

"Six fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were used to fight the fire. Everyone was safely accounted for and the fire was out by 7:15am.

"An investigation into the cause of the fire will take place today, but it is believed to have started accidentally."