Clandon Park House in Surrey hit by major blaze
A major blaze has broken out at an 18th Century stately home in Surrey.
Some 60 firefighters are tackling the fire at Clandon Park House, a mansion just outside Guildford run by the National Trust.
The fire is believed to have started in the basement just after 16:00 BST, before spreading to the roof.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing thick black smoke pouring from the building and the flames appear to have gutted most of the inside.
Clandon Park was built by a Venetian architect for Lord Onslow in the 1720s and the estate was passed down through generations of the family.
The building, which has become a popular wedding venue, was left to the National Trust in 1956.
The trust says the Palladian mansion contains a "superb" collection of 18th Century furniture, porcelain and textiles and features original stucco ceilings and marble fireplaces.
Witness Steve Porter tweeted: "Large amounts of fire and smoke coming from a major fire at Clandon House."
Another witness, Chris Nicholson posted: "The smell of burning and the thick smoke is continuing and we have to close the windows."
Others reportedly heard loud bangs coming from inside the property.
One woman, named on her Twitter account as Hannah, said: "Poor @ClandonPark hope it's not too badly damaged. Had the best wedding there last year. It's the most beautiful venue."

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