Dozens of firefighters from stations across the Isle of Wight are tackling a property fire in Brightstone this morning (Tuesday). Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service were alerted to a house fire at Gaggerhill Lane off the B3399 Hunny Hill shortly before 01:45. Upon arrival of the first crews, it was established that a fire had taken hold of the grade II listed residential home with flames seen lapping from the windows. 4 pumping appliances are on scene from Freshwater, Newport and Cowes Fire Stations, an Aerial Ladder Platform and an Incident Command Unit from Newport alongside support from a Water Carrier from the West Wight. 
Loud ‘pops and bangs’ are echoed across the night sky as firefighters wearing breathing apparatus work to knock back the flames with hose reel jets, and main jets. Fire hydrants are being utilised, with the assistance of the Water Carrier to help keep up with the water supply demands. Homeowners from the nearby properties have been evacuated for their safety. Residents are advised to keep their windows and doors closed while the incident is ongoing. 
Resources from the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service are in attendance alongside several Police officers from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary. Police officers are questioning onlookers whether they may have witnessed anything untoward in the lead-up, or during the fire. There are around half a dozen police vehicles at the Brighstone this morning. A Police drone has also been deployed to get an aerial view of the area. 
There are growing concerns for the neighbouring properties, with covering jets dampening down properties close to the blaze, especially one which is thatched. However, it is not thought the fire has spread to those. The slate roof of the 2-storey c1830s Isle of Wight stone rubble-built ashlar-dressed property with brick ends, has collapsed. Smoke and flames can be seen from miles around, from as far as Chale. 
The main road – B3399 Hunny Hill – between Brighstone and Mottistone, has been closed to traffic whilst the incident is dealt with. It is currently unknown whether anybody was within the property at the time of the fire nor whether the cause of the fire is being treated as suspicious. Statements from the Fire & Rescue Service and the Police are expected later this morning. 
There was another fire at Gaggerhill Lane in November last year, which saw a car well alight. More to follow. 
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